Missouri Governor Approves Marijuana Banking Bill

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has signed a public safety bill that includes provisions to improve banking access for marijuana businesses in the state. The legislation allows the Department of Health and Senior Services to share inspections and other information with banks, making it easier for them to serve cannabis businesses. However, the bill also requires all employees, contractors, and volunteers in the cannabis industry to undergo fingerprint background checks, which could slow down the hiring process. Supporters argue that improving banking access is a public safety issue, as cash-only transactions make businesses vulnerable to robberies.