Alabama Officials Approve Medical Marijuana Dispensary Licenses, Readying Program For Sales To Start In 2026

OG article by Marijuana Moment

Alabama officials have taken a major step forward in their medical cannabis program by approving three dispensary licenses, setting the stage for sales to begin in 2026. The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission granted licenses to GP6 Wellness, RJK Holdings, and CCS of Alabama, with the fourth license to follow in late January due to an administrative law judge's recommendation. These approvals come nearly five years after the 2021 legislation established the program, which allows registered physicians to recommend cannabis for conditions such as cancer, depression, Parkinson’s Disease, PTSD, sickle-cell anemia, chronic pain, and terminal diseases. Approved products are limited to tablets, tinctures, patches, oils, and peach-flavored gummies, excluding raw plant material and smokable forms.

Commission Chair Rex Vaughn emphasized the significance, stating, “We waited a long time to get to this point in time where we can make a decision like this, and it is monumental.” He anticipates revenue generation by springtime and patient access by spring 2026, though earlier hopes aimed for late 2025. Litigation, including lawsuits over licensing processes and delays, had previously stalled progress, but one case involving parents was dismissed in August.

As of now, nine cultivators, four processors, four transporters, and three dispensaries hold licenses, with only one patient registered. Commissioner Sam Blakemore highlighted cannabis's potential to alleviate symptoms like nausea and spasticity without opioid side effects, noting, “They can’t get relief from opioids. They can’t get relief from the gabapentin. They can finally have an opportunity to try something.” Patient advocate Amanda Taylor expressed enthusiasm, saying, “I am absolutely elated today because we’re on the cusp of having a working program.”