West Virginia’s Marijuana Program Has Collected $34 Million, But None of It Has Been Used

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West Virginia’s medical marijuana program has brought in millions of dollars since dispensaries first opened, but none of that money has been spent. State officials confirmed that roughly $34 million collected through taxes, licensing fees, and interest earnings from the program is currently sitting untouched in a state-controlled account.

While the money was intended to support research on marijuana’s medical benefits, addiction treatment programs, and public safety efforts, it has remained frozen due to ongoing concerns about federal restrictions and banking challenges.

Millions Collected, Nothing Spent

When West Virginia’s medical marijuana program began in 2021, it quickly started generating revenue through business licensing fees and taxes on product sales. As the program expanded, revenue steadily grew, eventually totaling around $34 million.

State law clearly outlines how that money should be used. It was meant to support:

• Research on medical marijuana and patient outcomes

• Treatment and prevention programs for substance-use disorders

• Training and support for law enforcement and community safety initiatives

However, despite years of collection, not a single dollar has been spent on these programs.

Why the Money Is Sitting Idle

The main issue comes down to federal law. Marijuana is still classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, which means it is considered illegal under federal regulations. Due to these federal restrictions, most banks and financial institutions are hesitant to handle money related to marijuana programs, even when those programs are fully legal at the state level.

To work around that problem, West Virginia passed a law in 2019 that allowed a state-approved credit union to manage the program’s funds. Yet, officials have still chosen not to release or spend the money, citing ongoing concerns about potential federal repercussions.

According to the West Virginia Treasurer’s Office, the funds remain in a credit union account until they receive clearer guidance or protection from federal law.

What the Money Was Supposed to Fund

If the funds were to be used as originally planned, they could make a major impact across several state programs.

If West Virginia distributed the entire fund today, here’s an example of how the $34 million could be distributed:

• $19 million to the Bureau for Public Health for marijuana research and program evaluation

• $8 million to the Fight Substance Abuse Fund for addiction prevention and treatment

• $6 million to the Division of Justice and Community Services for community safety initiatives

• $1.5 million for professional training and education for law enforcement officers

These programs were designed to strengthen the state’s medical marijuana system, improve patient care, and help address substance-use issues across West Virginia. Unfortunately, because the funds are sitting unused, none of these benefits are being realized.

Why It Matters

For patients and advocates, this situation is frustrating. The state’s medical marijuana program was built not only to provide safe access to treatment but also to create lasting public benefits through the funds it generates. When the money sits unused, those goals are delayed.

The unspent funds could be helping researchers study marijuana’s medical potential, assisting those struggling with addiction, and supporting local communities with safety resources. Instead, millions of dollars that were meant to serve West Virginians are collecting interest in a bank account.

What Could Change

One major development that could eventually unlock these funds is federal reform. Laws like the proposed SAFER Banking Act would give states and financial institutions more freedom to handle marijuana-related funds without fear of penalty.

Until then, state officials say they are continuing to monitor the situation while ensuring that the money remains safely stored. Once federal banking restrictions are lifted, West Virginia could finally begin using those millions of dollars as intended.

The Bottom Line

West Virginia’s medical marijuana program has collected more than $34 million, but none of it has been spent due to ongoing banking and federal law challenges. The money is secure, but critical programs for research, treatment, and public safety remain unfunded.

Patients, advocates, and lawmakers will be watching closely in the months ahead, hoping the state can soon put this funding to work and deliver on the promises of its medical marijuana program.

Despite this situation, West Virginia’s medical marijuana program continues to grow and serve thousands of patients across the state. Dispensaries remain open, new products are becoming available, and more patients are finding relief through medical marijuana each year. While the unused funds are a missed opportunity, the program itself is still making a positive impact on public health and helping residents access the care they need.

Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!

Medical marijuana is legal in the state of West Virginia, and you can apply for your very own medical card today! You need your medical card to visit any dispensary in the state.

If you think you may benefit from medical marijuana, there is a good chance you will qualify for a card. It is now easier than ever to get your card with telemedicine, right from the comfort of your own home!

Being a West Virginia medical marijuana patient allows you the freedom to establish your personalized treatment plan. We’re dedicated to helping patients every step of the way!

Feel free to give us a call at 877-303-8424, and we can answer your questions about getting a medical marijuana card in West Virginia.

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

West Virginia Marijuana Card’s mission is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

If you have any questions, call us at 877-303-8424, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!

Check out West Virginia Marijuana Card’s Blog to keep up to date on the latest medical marijuana news, tips, and information.

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