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Bill Summary · HB 1889

Summary of House Bill 1889

Bill Number: HB 1889
Title: To Amend the Limitations on Access to a Dispensary or Cultivation Facility; and to Authorize a Dispensary to Deliver Orders via a Delivery Vehicle or via a Drive-Through Window
Status: Delivered to the Secretary of State
Introduced: March 20, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1889 aims to amend existing regulations regarding access to dispensaries and cultivation facilities in Arkansas. The bill seeks to enhance the accessibility of marijuana products for qualified patients and designated caregivers by allowing dispensaries to deliver orders directly to residential addresses and through drive-through windows.

Key Provisions

Amendments to Access Limitations

  • Visitor Access: The bill modifies the conditions under which visitors can access restricted areas of dispensaries and cultivation facilities. Key requirements include:

    • Presentation of government-issued ID.
    • Wearing a visitor designation tag.
    • Being escorted by authorized personnel.
    • Not being a minor.
    • Maintaining a log of visitors and implementing video surveillance in restricted areas.

  • Parental Access: Parents with a registry identification card can bring their children into dispensaries for purchases. Additionally, parents without a designated caregiver card may accompany their children who have a registry identification card.

Delivery Authorization

  • Delivery via Vehicle: Dispensaries are authorized to deliver usable marijuana to qualified patients or designated caregivers at their residential addresses. Key points include:

    • Deliveries must occur on the date the order is processed.
    • A delivery manifest must accompany each delivery, including a ticket with product details and patient information.
    • Delivery drivers must verify the validity of the patient or caregiver's registry identification card before completing the delivery.
    • Vehicles may be staffed by a single employee if equipped with security measures like GPS or real-time monitoring.

  • Drive-Through Deliveries: Dispensaries may also offer a drive-through service for deliveries. Important stipulations include:

    • Only patients with pre-ordered online purchases can use the drive-through.
    • Deliveries must be packaged in opaque exit bags and include a delivery ticket.
    • The drive-through window must be secure and designed to prevent unauthorized access.

Regulatory Oversight

  • The Alcoholic Beverage Control Division is empowered to promulgate rules to implement the delivery provisions outlined in the bill.

Impact

This legislation is expected to:
- Improve access to marijuana products for patients and caregivers, particularly those with mobility challenges or those who prefer not to enter dispensaries.
- Enhance the operational capabilities of dispensaries by allowing them to offer delivery services, potentially increasing sales and customer satisfaction.
- Establish clear guidelines for the delivery process, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Legislative Timeline

  • March 20, 2025: Bill filed and read for the first time.
  • April 1, 2025: Returned by the committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation.
  • April 9, 2025: Passed by both the House and Senate.
  • April 16, 2025: Vetoed by the Governor.
  • April 23, 2025: Returned to the House from the Governor after veto.
  • May 7, 2025: Delivered to the Secretary of State.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 1889, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on the accessibility of marijuana products in Arkansas.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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