Missouri's Annual DHSS Administrative Hold: A Beloved Industry Tradition

It’s not summer in Missouri until the admin hold hits and your whole supply chain gets ghosted by the state.

Jefferson City, MO — As the sweltering heat of August approaches, Missouri's cannabis industry braces itself for what has now become a cherished annual event: the Department of Health and Senior Services' (DHSS) Administrative Hold. For the third consecutive year, DHSS is set to place thousands of cannabis products on administrative hold, much to the delight of dispensary owners and patients statewide.​

A Time-Honored Celebration

Industry insiders fondly recall the inaugural Administrative Hold of August 2023, when DHSS suspended operations at three marijuana facilities over product safety concerns, placing all related products on hold until deemed safe or destroyed. The tradition continued in August 2024, with thousands of cannabis products placed on hold, causing significant disruption across the state. ​

Festivities and Highlights

This year's Administrative Hold promises to be more exhilarating than ever. Dispensaries are gearing up for the "Hold Games," where staff compete to see who can explain the situation to frustrated patients with the straightest face. Winners receive the coveted "Golden Clipboard" award, symbolizing excellence in bureaucratic navigation.​

Community Engagement

Patients are encouraged to participate in the festivities by engaging in the "Strain Substitution Challenge," an interactive experience where they attempt to find alternative products not currently under hold. This engaging activity fosters community spirit and resilience, hallmarks of the Missouri cannabis scene.​

Looking Ahead

As the Administrative Hold tradition solidifies its place in Missouri's cultural fabric, industry leaders express gratitude for the consistency and predictability it brings. Plans are already underway for next year's celebrations, with proposals to include a "Compliance Maze" and "Labeling Lollapalooza" to further enhance the festive atmosphere.​

Final Puff

In a world of constant change, it's comforting to know that some things remain steadfast. Missouri's DHSS Administrative Hold stands as a testament to the state's commitment to tradition, community engagement, and the enduring power of bureaucratic festivity.