Marijuana and certain cannabis infused products, including some Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, remain illegal under federal law except for products that contain no more than 0.3 percent THC on a dry weight basis or that are approved by FDA. (See the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, Pub. L. 115-334.) TSA officers are required to report any suspected violations of law to local, state or federal authorities.
TSA’s screening procedures are focused on security and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers. Accordingly, TSA security officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer.
In 2015, the first medical marijuana dispensary opened in Massachusetts. This was nearly eight years after voters first approved the decriminalization of small amounts of marijuana in 2008. But stoners, rejoice: Massachusetts legalized the use of marijuana in 2016, and in 2018, recreational marijuana dispensaries entered the game as well. With several recreational weed shops opening their doors since it was legalized, Massachusetts is well on its way to becoming the Colorado of the East Coast, with locals enjoying the high spirits and visitors flooding in from other states to get some goods.
Even so, the laws surrounding legalization are slightly confusing, and it can be hard to understand exactly what is and still isn’t legal even with a solid number of medical and recreational dispensaries bubbling up all around. There are many questions as to how medical marijuana works in Massachusetts, like: How do I even find a doctor to prescribe it to me? Can I blaze up during a late-night trip to Wendy’s or a pit stop to Sullivan’s Castle Island? There are even more questions about how recreational toking works now that it’s been legalized.
To help us figure it out, we spoke to experts with intimate knowledge of all things cannabis in MA. Here's all the need-to-know facts if you want to smoke up, whether it’s medicinal or for a little fun.
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So is recreational weed legal? When and where can I buy it?
Recreational marijuana use was legalized in 2016 for anyone over the age of 21, and medical marijuana is still fine for anyone who gets a prescription and goes through the registration process. As for the amount that you can possess, the law says you can have up to 1 oz on you and up to 10 oz in your home, which you can get at dispensaries.
Can I smoke in public?
No. Even though it’s been legalized, it’s still illegal to consume medical or recreational weed in public. That means no smoking on sidewalks, in restaurants, at parks, schools, or on public transportation. Basically, your safest bet is smoking inside with friends and avoiding any public places, especially if you’re carrying medical marijuana but don’t have your paperwork on you just in case. The legalization of marijuana essentially means that it’s sort of OK to have but doesn’t necessarily mean you can get your fix anywhere and everywhere. Discretion is your friend.
Also keep in mind that, though weed is legal in Massachusetts, it’s still not legal under federal law. That means if you’re caught with marijuana on federal lands, including parks or monuments, you can still be charged with a federal crime. So you probably want to keep your cannabis at home if you’re going to Cape Cod for the weekend. Better safe than sorry.
So can I still be charged with illegal possession?
This gets complicated, but the short answer is yes. Again, even though it’s technically legal, you still need to have the necessary paperwork that shows you qualify to use it for medical reasons. Without it, you’re still breaking the law. If you do qualify and are legally registered, though, you can possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana outside of your residence, or up to 10 ounces inside your residence. Having anything more than that, or getting caught without the proper paperwork for medical marijuana, still makes you liable to be charged, and fined or put in jail. It’s a similar predicament for recreational marijuana, which you can technically buy and smoke, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in trouble with the law if you do it while out and about. Toke responsibly.
What are the dispensary options near Boston?
While there’s a fair amount of options around the city, there are unfortunately none in Boston proper. That said, who doesn’t love a mini roadtrip? Some of the best dispensaries near Boston are NETA Brookline and NETA Northampton, which was the state’s first recreational dispensary. Spots like these sell a wide variety of assortments and boast expansive menus, including edibles, gummies, and brownies, so you’re set no matter how you like to get your fix. If you’re looking for the quickest trip possible, you’ll want to check out NETA Brookline, which is only a few minutes outside of Boston by train. But if you don’t mind the drive, you might consider heading to Berkshire Roots in Pittsfield, the town that boasts two different recreational dispensaries, when most places in Massachusetts don’t even have one yet.
It will take time for the full perks of legalization spread to Boston, where it’s tougher to get approval to build dispensaries. “I do believe there are several [recreational] dispensaries fighting to open closer to Boston,' Massachusetts budtender Brandy Smith* explained to Thrillist. 'It is super complicated to open a weed shop in this state, and expensive, and takes forever.”
How do I get a prescription for medical marijuana?
As long as you’re a resident of Massachusetts, you can sign up for a medical marijuana card if you have a qualifying medical condition. First, you’ll have to discuss your current medical conditions and medical history with a doctor, and they’ll have to explain the risks and benefits of marijuana use to you. Then you’ll be required to get a physician certification -- a document signed by a doctor who believes medical marijuana will benefit you. That will cost about $200 and can be acquired from places like Canna Care or GreenWay Massachusetts.
When signing up for an ID card, you’ll have to register with the Medical Use of Marijuana Program. The registration fee is about $50, unless you’re below the federal poverty level. You can find more information here.
What are the approved conditions?
To qualify for a physician certification, you’ll need to demonstrate you have one of the approved conditions that are considered debilitating and might be alleviated by medical grade marijuana. These can include but are not limited to: AIDS, ayotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), cancer, Crohn's disease, glaucoma, hepatitis C, HIV, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson's, insomnia, or anxiety, among others.
What kind of doctor do I have to go to?
You must go to a doctor or certifying physician who you have an established and “bona fide physician-patient relationship” with. This is just to prevent doctors from giving out baseless medicinal marijuana certifications to everyone who walks through their doors. Basically, as long as you go to a doctor you trust who has some sense of your medical history and is likely to support your exploration of medical marijuana use, you should be fine. However, under the law, a bona fide physician-patient relationship specifically means you have to go to a doctor you’ve already had a complete clinical visit with in the past.
According to Tim Keogh from Bask Cannabis, the scenario might not always be so straightforward, depending on who your doctor is and how they feel about legal weed. “Primary care physicians have to go through specific courses and get certified through the Department of Health,” Keogh told Thrillist, adding that some have chosen not to go through that process “because maybe they don’t feel comfortable with it and don’t want to prescribe marijuana unless it’s a last, last resort. Or they work for the VA and they’re not allowed to.” Because of that, there are clinics that have stepped in to fill that void for patients who can benefit. If you’re not able to work with a primary care physician, you can work with a clinic, and from there, it should take about three to seven days for you to get a temporary ID.
How much medical marijuana can I buy at a dispensary?
Thanks to this handy dispensary guide, you can find any and every legal marijuana dispensary in the state of Massachusetts, including ones in Boston. Currently, patients in Massachusetts who qualify to use medical marijuana are limited to a 60-day supply of up to 10 ounces with a prescription. If your doctor decides that it’s medically necessary to prescribe you more than 10 ounces for that 60-day period, you may be able to purchase more. Lucky you!
Can I pay for it using my insurance?
Unfortunately not. No insurance provider in Massachusetts currently covers medical marijuana use. Bummer. That means you’ll have to use cash or your card.
Am I allowed to grow my own medical marijuana?
That’s a yes! The medical marijuana laws currently allow both registered patients and caregivers to grow their own marijuana. But there’s a catch -- in order to grow marijuana legally, you’d have to provide proof that purchasing medical marijuana from a dispensary would result in 'hardship.' It can be a documented financial hardship, being physically unable to get to a dispensary, or not having a dispensary within reasonable distance from your home. You can also get a written recommendation from your doctor to grow marijuana if you qualify.
Still, even if you qualify for the hardship exception, you or your caregiver are only allowed to grow a limited number of marijuana plants. You can only grow however many plants will give you a 60-day supply. As of 2016, any adult who qualifies may now grow up to six marijuana plants at a time, with a limit of 12 plants per residence. But of course there’s another catch. You also have to grow and store the marijuana in an enclosed, locked area that can’t be seen by and isn’t accessible to the public. On top of that, you can’t grow it at your home and also have a caregiver grow it at theirs. It’s one or the other.
The legalization of marijuana essentially means that it's sort of OK to have but doesn't necessarily mean you can get your fix anywhere and everywhere.
If I already have a medical marijuana recommendation from another state, can I use it to buy legal weed in Massachusetts?
Nope. You have to be registered IN Massachusetts in order to legally purchase medical marijuana in the state. However, state laws include a clause that allows patients visiting Massachusetts from other states to possess their own medical marijuana while in Massachusetts.
Can I take the weed that I buy in Massachusetts to another state?
If you’re planning to stock up in Massachusetts and then take a road trip, beware. If you travel across state lines, it’s possible that you could be charged with a federal felony -- even if you’re legally registered as someone who qualifies to use medical marijuana in Massachusetts.
Some states have reciprocity with others, which might honor another state’s medical marijuana prescriptions. Even so, taking marijuana across state lines is still illegal, and it would be smart to register with the state you’re visiting to purchase any marijuana you need from a dispensary in that state.
What about transporting it within the state? Can I do that?
You can only legally transport marijuana if you yourself are a registered medical marijuana patient, caregiver, or work for a registered marijuana dispensary. Otherwise, transporting marijuana (in any amount) is still illegal in Massachusetts. To be able to legally transport it, all you need is your medicinal marijuana ID card. Then -- and only then -- can you carry the legal amount that your doctor has prescribed you for your 60-day supply. That means you can carry up to 10 ounces of marijuana legally, unless your doctor has prescribed you more.
If you’re not the one buying or transporting marijuana, but you’re a registered caregiver, you’re allowed to bring a patient to and from a dispensary or purchase it and take it to them. People who work at dispensaries are allowed to transport marijuana to other dispensaries and to caregivers or registered patients as well.
What does the cannabis industry look like in Massachusetts now that both recreational and medical marijuana are legal?
The Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), the five-member panel in charge of regulating Massachusetts’ marijuana industry, is the entity in charge of deciding which dispensaries get licenses, and what kinds of marijuana businesses can operate in the state. It’s been approving new shops on a rolling basis since weed was legalized. There are currently 15 dispensaries open in the state, but that number could easily double in the next few years. While some have speculated that Massachusetts may also become the first state to issue social use licenses, that remains to be seen.
In addition to dispensaries, some restaurants and cafes boast weed-infused menu items. Someday, depending on how the laws pan out, there could even be movie theaters that sell pot brownies, or pot popcorn, but we're not there yet. There is, however, a new kind of “pot-leisure” economy that has also sprouted up since recreational weed was legalized, with businesses like weed-enhanced yoga classes and cannabis cafes and lounges making their mark on the New England map. There’s even a weed-infused fine dining experience, for those who want to feel truly high class -- if you know what we mean.
Still, the ways people can legally consume the drug is limited, and the CCC has ongoing studies on ways to address concerns over impaired driving and underage access, among other issues. Nonetheless, Smith said, the CCC hasn’t totally slowed down the expansion of a green state. Legalization has so far proven lucrative in places like Northampton -- a town with less than 29,000 residents -- having seen over $700,000 in revenue from recreational marijuana sales since dispensaries opened up shop.
And there's plenty of room to expand. Tim Keogh, the president of the board at Bask Cannabis in Fairhaven, sees a thriving marketplace for both medical and recreational dispensaries -- one poised to expand. He explained that Massachusetts could end up with even more dispensaries than Colorado thanks to the state's population density. Massachusetts is much smaller geographically and has 20% more people than Colorado crammed into it. Colorado has just over 3,000 licensed marijuana businesses, total -- including growers, processors, and sellers spread out across the state. Massachusetts' population of 6.86 million and proximity to bigger cities like New York would open the floodgates for much higher demand, by comparison. “There’s 50 million people with a four-hour drive time [to Massachusetts],” Keogh told us. 'That’s what makes it, in my opinion, one of the most attractive markets to operate in, and I think it will grow.”
Even so, Smith said, the legality of cannabis hasn’t erased ethical concerns surrounding the drug. She said the industry should take cues from initiatives like The Hood Incubator, and become more diverse “primarily by hiring more people of color and women of color, and not just in the retail and growing side but in management as well.” She also pointed out that while a fair number of dispensaries are owned by big companies, the weed business could create opportunities for locally owned shops.
Massachusetts is growing more marijuana-friendly every day, with festivals like Extravaganja at large, and according to Smith, doctors are even becoming more easygoing about their views on the drug’s truly medicinal qualities.
“The attitude has definitely changed,' she said. 'It’s way more welcoming and accepting, and there aren’t as many ‘pothead’ jokes anymore.”
“The attitude has definitely changed,' she said. 'It’s way more welcoming and accepting, and there aren’t as many ‘pothead’ jokes anymore.”
*Smith's name has been changed due to a non-disclosure agreement preventing her from speaking on the record about her job.
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Question 4 (2016) results by town. Towns with a majority of 'yes' votes in green and towns with a majority of 'no' votes in red.
Legal status of recreational marijuana retail shops in Massachusetts by town as of October 29, 2018. Towns in red have implemented permanent bans, towns in yellow have implemented moratoriums, and towns in green have not implemented a permanent ban or a moratorium.[1]
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Marijuana (Cannabis sativa)
Cannabis in Massachusetts relates to the legal and cultural events surrounding the use of cannabis. A century after becoming the first U.S. state to criminalize recreational cannabis, Massachusetts voters elected to legalize it in 2016.[2]
In 2008 Massachusetts voters decriminalized[3] the possession of small amounts of marijuana.[4] Massachusetts became the eighteenth state to legalize medical marijuana when voters passed a ballot in 2012,[5] even though the federal government still lists marijuana as a Schedule 1 controlled substance with no medical value. Recreational marijuana is legal in Massachusetts as of December 15, 2016, following a ballot initiative in November of that year.[6]
As of 2010 almost 10% of Massachusetts residents over the age of 12 had used marijuana in the past month, and almost 16% had used marijuana within the past year.[7] The largest event for the support of the legalization of marijuana, the Boston Freedom Rally, takes place annually in September. People come from surrounding areas to attend this rally[8]
- 1Legality
- 1.4Recreational cannabis
- 1.4.1Overview
- 1.4Recreational cannabis
- 2Culture
Legality[edit]
Recreational marijuana is regulated and taxed but legal in Massachusetts, with retail sales from licensed dealers becoming legal on November 20, 2018. Legalization occurred in staging, with decriminalization followed by legal medical marijuana before full legalization.
Restriction[edit]
In 1911 (some sources state 1914[9]) Massachusetts became the first state to restrict cannabis on a state level, prohibiting the sale of 'Indian hemp' without a prescription.[10]
Decriminalization[edit]
On November 4, 2008, Massachusetts voters passed a ballot that decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana.[4] The Massachusetts Sensible Marijuana Policy Initiative made the possession of less than one ounce of marijuana punishable by a fine of $100 without the possessor being reported to the state's criminal history board.[11] Minors also had to notify their parents, take a drug awareness program, and complete 10 hours of community service. Before decriminalization, people charged faced up to six months in jail and a $500 fine.[12]
The proponents of the change argued that:[13]
- The change would keep the existing policies regarding growing, trafficking, and driving under the influence of the drug, while protecting those caught from a tainted criminal record
- Massachusetts could save $130 million each year
- Convictions of less than one ounce have been shown to have little or no impact on drug use
The opponents argued that the decriminalization would:[4]
- Promote use of the drug and protect dealers
- Increase violence
- Create hazardous workplaces
- Increase car crashes
Rules On Transportation Of Marijuana In Massachusetts 2016
The law went into effect January 2009.[12]
Medical marijuana[edit]
On November 6, 2012, 63% of Massachusetts voters approved Question 3, the Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Initiative.[14] The law took effect on January 1, 2013, eliminating criminal and civil penalties for the possessions and use of up to a 60-day supply of marijuana for patients possessing a state issued registration card. With a recommendation by a physician, patients with cancer, glaucoma, and other medical conditions can receive a registration card. The law allows for 35 state-licensed non-profit dispensaries. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has until May 1, 2013 to issue further regulations. Marijuana dispensaries will not be able to open until after the regulations have been set.[15] The Massachusetts Medical Society opposes the bill, saying there is no scientific proof that marijuana is safe and effective.[14] After the law passed, towns attempted to ban dispensaries. Attorney General Martha M. Coakley ruled that cities and towns cannot ban dispensaries, and can only regulate them. Complete bans would conflict with the law.[16]
Recreational cannabis[edit]
Overview[edit]
In the November 8, 2016 election, Massachusetts voters passed a ballot initiative (Question 4) making recreational cannabis legal in the state.[6]
Provisions for home use and cultivation went into effect on December 15, 2016.[17] Individuals are allowed to possess and purchase up to one ounce at a time, and if driving it must be locked up and not openly visible. Each household can grow up to six plants, or twelve for those with more than one adult, but the plants cannot be visible from the street. Households can store up to ten ounces, or more if harvested from a home crop.
Smoking marijuana on public property, including parks and sidewalks, is illegal, as is smoking it while driving. An unlicensed sale (including barter) is illegal for the seller but not the buyer; giving away home-grown marijuana for free is allowed.
Sales[edit]
Governor Charlie Baker signed legislation on December 30, 2016 extending the start date for legal licensed recreational cannabis sales by six months, to July 2018. The extended ban eventually lasted 8 months past the original effective date of the initiative. The law legalizing recreational cannabis in Massachusetts was signed into effect on July 28, 2017. It is codified at G.L. Ch. 94G. The law permits an individual to carry up to 1 ounce on their person and have up to 10 ounces in their home.
While the recreational marijuana industry in Massachusetts was initially overseen by the Department of Health, the Cannabis Control Commission took charge of the administration of the industry in December 2018. The Commission is responsible for promulgating regulations relating to marijuana, processing business applications and issuing licenses, and creating policies and procedures which 'promote and encourage full participation in the regulated marijuana industry by people from communities that have previously been disproportionately harmed by marijuana prohibition and enforcement and to positively impact those communities.'[18]
Cities and towns have the power to require permits, block recreational stores from locating in certain areas (through zoning bylaws) or from locating in the municipality at all. However, the law mandates that a ban must be approved by a local referendum if the majority of voters in the municipality were in favor of the statewide Question 4; otherwise, the city council can approve a ban on its own. Applicants must also hold a community meeting and negotiate an agreement with the host municipality in order to get a state license. As of March 2018, 59 municipalities had enacted a permanent ban, and 130 had enacted a temporary moratorium (all of which end sometime in 2018).[19]
Retail and medical marijuana businesses must also negotiate a Community Host Agreement with the city or town in which it is located pursuant to Massachusetts Law. Cities and towns are permitted to assess a community impact fee of up to 3% of the businesses annual revenue. The agreement may be in place for no more than 5 years. However, towns and cities throughout Massachusetts have not followed these requirements.
Retail sales have a 10.75% excise tax on the marijuana, on top of the general 6.25% state sales tax, and up to a 3% local option tax, for a total of 17%–20% tax.[20] Treasurer Deborah Goldberg unilaterally increased the excise tax to 10.75% from the 3.75% approved by voters in the language of ballot question.[21]
The first recreational license for cultivation only was granted on Jun 21, 2018, so no sales occurred on the first day of legalization, July 1.[22] New licensees have to wait for approval before planting, so existing medical dispensaries that expand to recreational sales have a competitive advantage, but must also wait for recreational approval.[23] Licensing of delivery services (other than for medical marijuana) was further delayed by the Cannabis Control Commission, as was that for on-site consumption.[23]
The first two stores opened on November 20, 2018, in Northampton and Leicester, after testing labs had been approved and begun operations, and the stores received final sign-off.[24] During the first week of sales, excluding Thanksgiving Day where both locations were closed, $2,217,621.13 in sales was sold between the two locations.[25]
Between November 20, 2018 and January 20, 2019, consumers purchased nearly $24 million on recreational marijuana products and the state has received about $4 million in tax revenue. As of late January 2019, the state now has nine stores licensed to sell recreational marijuana.[26]
Charlie Baker administration (2015–Present)[edit]
Massachusetts GovernorCharlie Baker, along with the Speaker of the State House of RepresentativesRobert DeLeo,[27]State Attorney GeneralMaura Healey,[28]State TreasurerDeb Goldberg,[29] and Boston MayorMarty Walsh,[28] opposed the 2016 ballot initiative to legalize the recreational use of marijuana in the state, but after its passage stated 'Our view on this is the people spoke and we're going to honor that, but we need to make sure that we implement this in a way..[that protects] public safety and [ensures] that only those who are supposed to have access to these products will.'[30] The month following the ballot initiative's passage, Baker signed into law a six-month delay in the issuance of licenses for retailing marijuana in shops from January 2018 to July 2018,[31] and in July 2017, signed into law a compromise bill that increased the excise tax on marijuana sales, expanded the size of the Cannabis Control Commission created by the ballot initiative, mandated background checks for Commission and marijuana shop employees, shifted control of the state's medical cannabis program from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to the Commission, and created rules for town governments to restrict or ban marijuana shops based on the results of the 2016 ballot initiative within their jurisdiction.[32]
In August 2017, Baker appointed State SenatorJennifer Flanagan to the Cannabis Control Commission and five members of the Cannabis Advisory Board that advises the Commission,[33][34] and the following month, the Commission met for the first time.[35] In January 2018, Baker proposed a $7.6 million budget for the Commission in his state budget proposal for fiscal year 2019.[36] Also in January 2018, after U.S. Attorney GeneralJeff Sessions rescinded the ObamaJustice Department's Cole Memorandum,[37] as well as making personal requests to congressional leaders to not renew the Rohrabacher–Farr amendment in the previous year,[38] Baker expressed opposition to the rescission, with his administration stating that it 'believes this is the wrong decision and will review any potential impacts from any policy changes by the local U.S. Attorney's Office', and Baker reiterated his support for implementing the legal and regulated recreational marijuana market as passed by voters on the 2016 ballot initiative.[39] In addition, Baker has also expressed concerns about federal prosecutors creating confusion and uncertainty in states where marijuana has been legalized for either medical or recreational usage,[40] and argued that the Massachusetts U.S. Attorney's Office, instead of prosecuting local marijuana businesses, should focus its resources on resolving the opioid epidemic in the state (identifying fentanyl in particular).[41]
After meeting with the incoming U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling in February 2018, Baker stated the following month that Lelling 'made pretty clear his primary focus is going to be on fentanyl and heroin', and that after speaking with governors in other states with legal recreational marijuana markets at a National Governors Association meeting, Baker said that he 'did not get the impression any of them felt there had been a significant change in their relationship with the U.S. attorneys in their states as a result of the change in the administration.. because people are pretty focused on the opioid issue.'[42] Also in February 2018, Baker argued that the Cannabis Control Commission should create its regulatory framework in incremental steps by prioritizing marijuana shops over cafés, saying 'that if they try to unwrap the entire package straight out of the gate, the role and responsibility they have as an overseer and as a regulator is going to be compromised', reiterating that the purpose of legalization was to create a 'safe, reliable, legal market' in the state.[43]
In March 2018, The Boston Globe reported that 189 of the 351 Massachusetts cities and towns had either indefinitely or temporarily banned retail marijuana stores.[44] In June 2018, Baker, along with 11 other governors, wrote a letter to Speaker of the U.S. House of RepresentativesPaul Ryan, U.S. House Minority LeaderNancy Pelosi, U.S. Senate Majority LeaderMitch McConnell, and U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urging the passage of the bipartisan STATES Act sponsored by Massachusetts SenatorElizabeth Warren and Colorado SenatorCory Gardner.[45] In the same month, Massachusetts Attorney GeneralMaura Healey ruled that municipalities with moratoriums on recreational marijuana sales would be allowed to extend them for another year.[46]
Also in June 2018, with marijuana sales in the state scheduled to begin the following month and no recreational marijuana retail licenses having being issued, Cannabis Control Commission Chairman Steven Hoffman stated that 'We have said from the start that July 1 is not a legislative mandate, it's our objective and we are going to try to meet that objective, but we are going to do it right', with other Commission regulators noting that only 53 of 1,145 applications for marijuana business licenses were complete and ready for review.[47] On July 2, 2018, Baker praised the Commission's work in creating the regulatory framework for the recreational marijuana industry in the state, and expressed support for the Commission's decision to roll out the industry more slowly, stating 'It's very clear that you only get one shot to roll this out, and it's very hard to change if you don't do what you think you should have done the first time.'[48]
On the same day, the Commission voted unanimously to grant the first recreational marijuana retail license to a medical dispensary in Leicester.[49] In November 2018, after the Cannabis Control Commission approved their final business licenses the previous month,[50] the state's first two retail marijuana shops opened in Leicester and Northampton and the two shops recorded $2.2 million in sales of marijuana products during their first week.[51][52] The following month, the Cannabis Control Commission approved licenses for retail stores in Salem,[53]Easthampton,[54] and Wareham,[54] and Cannabis Control Commission Chair Steven Hoffman estimated that the state would begin to see four to eight new retail stores opening each month.[55]
Bans and moratoriums by town[edit]
As of October 29, 2018, the following 180 towns had either a permanent ban (84) or a moratorium (96) currently in place on retail marijuana stores:[1]
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Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard[edit]
Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard are islands which are separated from the mainland by federal waters. The state medical marijuana law requires a dispensary in every county; each island is its own county, but the problem of federal jurisdiction has created a legal hurdle to shipping mainland-grown product to the islands.[57] State law requires marijuana grown on the island to be tested in state labs, which are located on the mainland, so crossing through federal jurisdiction is also a problem for growers.[58]
Though the Steamship Authority is run by the state, anyone transporting marijuana by sea could be subject to arrest by the United States Coast Guard.[57] Similar problems exist in transporting marijuana to and from islands in Hawaii[57] and Washington State,[58] but as of 2018 it appears the Coast Guard has not taken enforcement action against those legally possessing marijuana under state law, despite asserting it will do so.
The Federal Aviation Administration could terminate the license of a pilot knowingly transporting marijuana, but there is some legal question as to whether air transport of marijuana authorized by state law is acceptable under an FAA regulation with ambiguous wording.[58] The Transportation Security Administration does not have the legal authority to enforce federal law, only to protect the security of aircraft. Illegal drugs found by TSA at airport security checkpoints (which are not in the scope of what they are searching for in the first place) are referred to local law enforcement; in Massachusetts possession of under one ounce is legal, so state police will take no action.[59] People transporting marijuana by plane are subject to arrest by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Air Marshal Service, though in practice minor violations are typically referred to local law enforcement.[59]
Public opinion[edit]
Poll source | Date(s) administered | Sample size | Margin of error | % support | % opposition | % Undecided/Don't Know |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Western New England University | October 23–November 2, 2016 | 417 LV | ± 4.5% | 61% | 34% | 5% |
Suffolk University/The Boston Globe | October 24–26, 2016 | 500 LV | ± 4.4% | 48.8% | 42.4% | 8.8% |
WBUR/MassINC Polling Group | October 13–16, 2016 | 502 LV | ± 4.4% | 55% | 40% | 5% |
Western New England University | September 24–October 3, 2016 | 403 LV | ± 5.0% | 52% | 42% | 6% |
467 RV | ± 5.0% | 55% | 39% | 6% | ||
WBZ/UMass Amherst | September 15–20, 2016 | 700 LV | ± 4.3% | 53% | 40% | 7% |
800 RV | ± 4.1% | 51% | 40% | 9% | ||
WBUR/MassINC Polling Group | September 7–10, 2016 | 506 LV | ± 4.4% | 50% | 45% | 5% |
Gravis Marketing/Jobs First | July 12–13, 2016 | 901 RV | ± 3.3% | 41% | 51% | 9% |
Suffolk University/The Boston Globe | May 2–5, 2016 | 500 LV | ± 4.4% | 43.0% | 45.8% | 11% |
April 1–10, 2016 | 497 RV | ± 4% | 57% | 35% | 7% | |
UMass Amherst/WBZ | February 19–25, 2016 | 891 RV | ± 4.1% | 53% | 40% | 7% |
Emerson College | October 16–18, 2015 | 629 RV | ± 3.9% | 40.5% | 47.6% | 11.9% |
The Boston Globe | June 22–24/June 29-July 1, 2014 | 601 LV | ± 4% | 48% | 47% | 5% |
WBUR/MassINC Polling Group | May 16–18, 2014 | 504 LV | ± 4.4% | 49% | 42% | 9% |
WBUR/MassINC Polling Group | March 14–16, 2014 | 500 LV | ± 4.4% | 48% | 41% | 10% |
Boston Herald/Suffolk University | January 29-February 3, 2014 | 600 LV | ± 4.0% | 53.17% | 37.17% | 9.67% |
Western New England University | November 5-November 11, 2013 | 467 RV | ± 4.5% | 39% | 52% | 9% |
Culture[edit]
Usage[edit]
Marijuana is the most common illegal drug used in the United States. A 2007 survey showed that over 100 million US citizens over the age of 12 have used marijuana. More teenagers are current users of marijuana than cigarettes.[60] The following chart shows percentages of Massachusetts' population's marijuana usage using data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration based on surveys from 2010 and 2011.[7]
Ages | 12+ | 12-17 | 18-25 | 26+ |
---|---|---|---|---|
Past Year | 15.89 | 18.31 | 42.33 | 10.98 |
Past Month | 9.96 | 11.32 | 28.42 | 6.56 |
Cultivation[edit]
Assessing the total cultivation of marijuana in the United States was difficult, and even more difficult by a statewide basis due to the illegality of the drug. In the ballot of 2016, growing and cultivating the plant was legalized. In 2006 it was estimated that there was 22 million pounds of domestic crop. Including the imported crop from Mexico and Canada, Dr. Jon Gettman estimates there is approximately $100 billion worth of crop available in the United States.[61] Gettman's study, Marijuana Production in the United States, shows that Massachusetts ranks 44th marijuana cultivation by state, producing 12,700 lbs. of marijuana worth $20 million.[62]
Events[edit]
2008 Freedom Rally in Boston
The Boston Freedom Rally is an annual event on the third Saturday in September. It is the second largest annual gathering demanding marijuana law reform in the United States. The Massachusetts Cannabis Reform Coalition organizes the event. The event began in 1989, and has been held on the Boston Common since 1992. The city of Boston has tried to stop the event, but has been unable to do so.[8]
See also[edit]
References[edit]
- ^ abJarmanning, Ally; Fujiwara, Daigo (June 28, 2018). 'Where Marijuana Stores Can — And Can't — Open In Mass'. WBUR. Retrieved June 28, 2018.
- ^Miller, Joshua (8 November 2016). 'Mass. voters say 'yes' to legalizing marijuana'. The Boston Globe. Retrieved 9 November 2016.
- ^'Marijuana Laws Massachusetts'.
- ^ abcAbel, David (November 4, 2008). 'Mass. voters OK decriminalization of marijuana'. Boston.com. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^Altieri, Erik (November 6, 2012). 'Massachusetts Becomes 18th State to Legalize Medical Marijuana'. NORML. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^ abBlair, Russell (November 8, 2016). 'Recreational Marijuana Passes In Massachusetts'. Hartford Courant.
- ^ ab'2010-2011 National Survey on Drug Use and Health Model-Based Estimates'(PDF). Table 2 and 3. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
- ^ ab'Mass Cann'. MASS CANN. Retrieved March 31, 2013.
- ^Ronald Hamowy (1 January 2008). Government and Public Health in America. Edward Elgar Publishing. pp. 234–. ISBN978-1-84720-425-7.
- ^Dale H. Gieringer; Ed Rosenthal; Gregory T. Carter (2008). Marijuana Medical Handbook: Practical Guide to Therapeutic Uses of Marijuana. Quick American. pp. 117–. ISBN978-0-932551-86-3.
- ^'Marijuana Laws Massachusetts'.
- ^ ab'General Laws'. 188th General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^Crimaldi, Laura (January 27, 2008). 'Marijuana measures head to voters'. Boston Herald.
- ^ ab'Medical marijuana law passes in Massachusetts'. CBS News. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
- ^'Massachusetts Medical Marijuana'. NORML. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^Stilts, Josh (March 15, 2013). 'Massachusetts medical marijuana dispensaries may open this summer'. The Berkshire Eagle. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
- ^Legal weed: What you can and can’t do in Massachusetts
- ^G.L. ch. 94G § 4.
- ^Pot shops face bans in most of Mass.
- ^Scarboro, Morgan (2017-08-01). 'Massachusetts Increases Marijuana Tax Rate'. The Tax Foundation. Retrieved 2018-01-03.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (2016-08-05). 'Treasurer Deb Goldberg says proposed tax rate for legal marijuana in Massachusetts is too low'. Mass Live. Retrieved 2019-02-14.
- ^Massachusetts Issues First Recreational Marijuana License
- ^ abEverything you need to know about Massachusetts’ new pot rules
- ^Senne, Steven; Salsberg, Bob (20 November 2018). 'Recreational marijuana sales began in Massachusetts. Here's how it went. Cultivate in Leicester and New England Treatment Access (NETA) in Northampton made history Tuesday morning'. Boston.com/AP.
- ^MacNeill, Arriana (27 November 2018). 'Here's how much was spent on recreational marijuana in the first week'. Boston.com.
- ^Gans, Felicia (2019-01-24). 'In first 2 months of legal pot sales, public spent nearly $24m'. The Boston Globe. Retrieved 2019-01-25.
- ^Schoenberg, Shira (April 14, 2016). 'Gov. Charlie Baker, Speaker Robert DeLeo team up to create anti-marijuana legalization ballot committee'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 22, 2018.
- ^ abLevenson, Eric (March 7, 2016). 'Massachusetts's most powerful politicians come out against legal marijuana'. Boston.com. Boston Globe Media Partners. Retrieved April 22, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautus (October 5, 2016). 'Treasurer Deb Goldberg says proposed tax rate for legal marijuana in Massachusetts is too low'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 22, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (November 9, 2016). 'Legal marijuana: Gov. Charlie Baker says new law should be implemented 'briskly''. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 19, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (December 30, 2016). 'Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker signs new law delaying retail pot shops'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved January 5, 2017.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (July 25, 2017). 'Massachusetts marijuana laws got a Statehouse rewrite. Here's what you need to know'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 18, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (August 23, 2017). 'Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker appoints state Sen. Jennifer Flanagan to Cannabis Control Commission'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 18, 2018.
- ^'Governor Baker Names Five to Cannabis Advisory Board'. www.mass.gov. August 4, 2017. Retrieved April 22, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (September 12, 2017). 'The new Massachusetts Cannabis Commission meets for the first time today'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 18, 2018.
- ^Schoenberg, Shira (January 30, 2018). 'Governor's budget would give $7.6 million to marijuana oversight commission'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 18, 2018.
- ^Schoenberg, Shira (January 4, 2018). 'Report: AG Jeff Sessions will rescind policy letting states legalize marijuana'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^Ingraham, Christopher (June 13, 2017). 'Jeff Sessions personally asked Congress to let him prosecute medical-marijuana providers'. The Washington Post. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^Schoenberg, Shira (January 4, 2018). 'Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker opposes AG Jeff Sessions' decision to rescind policy letting states legalize marijuana'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (January 5, 2018). 'Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker says he's worried about federal officials sowing confusion about legal marijuana'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (January 9, 2018). 'Instead of marijuana crackdown, federal prosecutors should focus on fentanyl, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker says'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^Young, Colin A. (March 14, 2018). 'Baker: States with legal pot not worried about fed crackdown'. The Salem News. CNHI. Retrieved April 19, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (February 8, 2018). 'Massachusetts retail marijuana shops need to be in place in July, pot cafes not so much, Gov. Charlie Baker says'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 19, 2018.
- ^DeCosta-Klipa, Nik (May 1, 2018). 'More than half of Massachusetts has banned legal pot shops. Seth Moulton says that's a mistake'. Boston.com. Boston Globe Media Partners. Retrieved June 20, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (June 8, 2018). 'Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker backs Sen. Elizabeth Warren's marijuana bill, urges Capitol Hill leaders to pass the legislation'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved June 14, 2018.
- ^'Under Mass. Attorney General Decision, Marijuana Moratoriums Can Last Longer'. WBUR. June 25, 2018. Retrieved June 28, 2018.
- ^'Still no pot shop licenses in state, July 1 target in doubt'. WCVB. June 14, 2018. Retrieved June 21, 2018.
- ^Schoenberg, Shira (July 2, 2018). 'With no Massachusetts retail marijuana stores open by July 1, Gov. Charlie Baker says Cannabis Control Commission doing a 'great job''. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved July 5, 2018.
- ^Congi, Sera (July 2, 2018). 'First retail marijuana shop hopes to start sales within weeks'. WCVB. Retrieved July 2, 2018.
- ^Young, Colin A. (October 4, 2018). 'The State's First Recreational Marijuana Shops Are OK'd For Leicester And Northampton'. WBUR. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^'Recreational Marijuana Sales Begin In Massachusetts Tuesday'. WBUR. November 19, 2018. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^'Legal Pot Shops In Mass. Sold More Than $2.2 Million In Their First Week'. WBUR. November 27, 2018. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^Jarmanning, Ally (December 11, 2018). 'First Eastern Mass. Recreational Marijuana Store Gets OK To Open'. WBUR. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^ abYoung, Colin A. (December 17, 2018). 'Retail Marijuana Stores Given OK To Open In Easthampton And Wareham'. WBUR. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^Young, Colin A. (December 27, 2018). 'CCC Chair Could See 8 New Marijuana Retail Stores A Month'. WBUR. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^Tzouvelis, Joanna (May 1, 2018). 'Belmont Town Meeting approves marijuana moratorium and sales tax, plastic bag ban'. Belmont Citizen-Herald. GateHouse Media. Retrieved December 29, 2018.
- ^ abcFederal Drug Laws Create Medical Marijuana Conundrum On Martha's Vineyard
- ^ abcState eyes flight rule to ship marijuana to islands
- ^ abWhat happens if you bring pot to Logan?
- ^'Drug Facts: Marijuana'. National Institute on Drug Abuse. December 2012. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^'Marijuana Economics 101'. PBS. July 26, 2011. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
- ^Gettmann, John. 'Marijuana Production in the United States (2006)'(PDF). Appendix 3a. Retrieved April 3, 2013.
External links[edit]
Retrieved from 'https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Cannabis_in_Massachusetts&oldid=901074828'
California, Maine, Massachusetts and Nevada recently passed laws legalizing the recreational use of marijuana. Arkansas, Florida and North Dakota enacted medical marijuana initiatives, bringing the total of states (and the District of Columbia) that allow some form of marijuana use to 33.
What does this trend mean for entrepreneurs thinking of entering the cannabis industry?
National prohibitions against interstate cannabis commerce and federal banking and drug laws are keeping big companies at bay, which opens the door for small businesses and startups to establish dispensaries, retail stores, cultivators, processing, manufacturing and testing facilities.
Marijuana Business Laws By State
To prosper, entrepreneurs must know the laws that govern their state’s use of the substance. To be safe, they should also confer with an attorney to ensure they are in compliance with the law.
Here is a state-by-state breakdown showing which states have passed laws governing some form of marijuana use and, where applicable, what businesses are allowed to do regarding its growth, production and sale.
States that Allow Medical Marijuana Use
Alaska
Alaska was one of the earliest states to pass a ballot initiative allowing medical use of marijuana. Voters approved Measure 8 in 1998. The law went into effect the following year.
Its passage removed criminal penalties for the use, possession and cultivation of marijuana by patients who possess written documentation from their physician advising that they “might benefit from the medical use of marijuana.”
Alaska’s online application for a marijuana business license became available on February 24, 2016. On January 22, 2016, the State adopted final cannabis industry regulations, which began enforcement on February 21, 2016.
Arizona
Arizona passed Proposition 203 in 2010 by the slim margin of 50.13 percent of voters. It allows registered qualifying patients to obtain marijuana from a registered nonprofit dispensary and to possess and use medical marijuana to treat the condition.
Patients must have a physician’s written certification that they have been diagnosed with a debilitating condition and that they would likely receive benefit from marijuana.
The Arizona Department of Health Services recently awarded 31 new medical cannabis licenses for dispensaries. Currently, there are 94 operating in the state, along with another five that have received licenses but are not yet up and running, bringing the total of licensed dispensaries to 130.
Arkansas
Arkansas enacted a measure, Issue 6, on November 8, 2016, that allows seriously ill patients to use and obtain medical marijuana with their doctors’ approval.
The amendment will establish between four and eight cultivation facility licenses and up to 40 dispensaries, all of which it will regulate under the auspices of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division. The law prohibits cultivation.
As of now, the state has 120 days to adopt rules concerning the licensing and regulation of dispensaries and cultivation facilities and will begin accepting applications on June 1, 2017.
California
On November 5, 1996, California became the first state in the United States to legalize medical marijuana when the voters passed Proposition 215 by 56 percent.
Governor Jerry Brown signed the Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act (MMRSA) into law on October 9, 2015. It establishes a framework for future medical marijuana regulations and a statewide licensing program for growing, manufacturing, transportation, distribution, testing and retail dispensing of medical marijuana. State licenses are not currently available.
State licenses are not currently available.
Colorado
On November 7, 2000, Colorado voters approved Amendment 20, which amended the State Constitution to allow the use of marijuana in the state for approved patients with written medical consent. (See Colorado’s entry under recreational use to view business opportunities.)
Connecticut
In June 2012, Governor Daniel Malloy signed into law a medical marijuana program for his state, following a 21-13 vote in the Senate.
Connecticut has nine medical marijuana dispensaries. The state is not accepting new applications at this time.
Delaware
In May 2011, Governor Jack Markell signed legislation allowing patients 18 and older with “certain serious or debilitating conditions” to use cannabis, and possess up to six ounces
The state has one dispensary (called a “Compassion Center”), in Wilmington, but is not currently accepting applications for new businesses.
Florida
On November 8, 2016, Florida passed legislation allowing residents to apply to open Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTC). These entities can acquire, cultivate, process and distribute or administer marijuana and related products, such as food, aerosols and ointments.
It remains to be determined whether or not regulators will allow stand-alone, specialized businesses for retailing, cultivation, delivery services, edibles or topicals.
Hawaii
In 2000, Hawaii passed SB 862 HD1, making it the first state to legalize medical cannabis via the legislature, as opposed to a voter initiative.
The legislature amended the law in 2013 with two bills that took effect in January 2015, House Bill 668 and Senate Bill 642. HB 668 moves the medical marijuana program from the Department of Public Safety to the Department of Health and establishes a Medical Marijuana Registry special fund.
Registered medical cannabis patients and caregivers may possess up to three ounces of usable cannabis and cultivate up to seven plants (three mature, four immature).
The bills made no provision for the commercial sale of marijuana, however.
Illinois
In 2013, The Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program Act (HB 1) was enacted to create a temporary statewide distribution program for qualifying patients.
HB 1 allows patients to obtain up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis every two weeks from one of the 60 dispensing organizations that will be supplied by 22 cultivation centers.
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The state closed the licensing period in September 2014 for opening a medical marijuana dispensary and growing or cultivating medical marijuana legally. Cultivators are allowed to create medical marijuana/cannabis edibles and extractions and other marijuana-infused products.
Iowa
In 2014, the Iowa legislature passed SF 2360, the “Medical Cannabidiol Act,” which allows licensed neurologists to certify patients with intractable epilepsy to use cannabidiol (CBD) products with three percent or less THC content.
The law does not allow other types of physicians to write qualifying recommendations, nor does it allow for patients with any other conditions to obtain legal protections or marijuana businesses to be licensed to operate.
No plans are currently in place to license commercial dispensaries.
Louisiana
Although there is an approved legislation (SB 271) that allows 10 pharmacies to distribute medical cannabis and only one cultivation center to exist, they aren’t viable options for would-be business owners due to the severe limitations imposed by the regulations.
Maine
On November 2, 1999, Maine legalized medical marijuana when 62 percent of the population voted yes on Question 2. (See the provisions for starting a business under Maine’s listing regarding recreational use.)
Maryland
Maryland closed medical marijuana business applications on November 6, 2015, but continues to move toward licensing cultivators and dispensaries.
Senate Bill 923 and House Bill 881, signed into law by Governor Martin O’Malley on April 14, 2014, changed the medical marijuana program being implemented by the Natalie M. LaPrade Medical Marijuana Commission.
The new regulations have provisions now for how to:
- Open a medical marijuana dispensary;
- Start a marijuana cultivation business and grow medical marijuana legally;
- Start a processing facility.
Massachusetts
In 2012, Massachusetts legalized medical marijuana when voters passed Question 3 by 60 percent. (See the state’s entry under the recreational use category to learn about business opportunities.)
Michigan
Under the new regulations (HB 4209, HB 4210, HB 4287), signed by Gov. Rick Snyder on September 20, 2016, Michigan will be open for medical marijuana businesses soon.
The regulations contain stipulations for dispensaries, cultivators, processors, testing facilities and transporters.
The state has 360 days from the effective date until prospective businesses can begin applying, which is no later than September 15, 2017.
Minnesota
On May 29, 2014, Gov. Mark Dayton signed a bipartisan medical marijuana proposal that was crafted by a House and Senate conference committee, making Minnesota the 22nd state to exempt some of the very sick and their caregivers from penalties for using marijuana with a doctor’s certification.
No provisions were made to license commercial dispensaries.
Missouri
Missouri passed HB 2238 in 2014, which creates a legal right for certain patients to obtain, possess and use “hemp extracts” in limited circumstances.
Only patients with a seizure disorder and a recommendation from a neurologist are eligible to get a “hemp registration card,” which entitles them to access and legal protections.
Qualified patients can purchase hemp extracts from two state-regulated “Cannabidiol oil care centers.”
The law also allows the Department of Agriculture to license and regulate growers of cannabis plants to produce the oil to make sure they conform to the CBD and THC stipulations.
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Montana
Under the new regulations, enacted as of November 8, 2016, Montana is currently open for medical marijuana businesses.
The regulations of this measure have provisions for medical marijuana dispensaries, manufacturers, cultivators and testing facilities.
Nevada
Nevada legalized medical marijuana on November 7, 2000, when 65 percent of the populace voted yes on Question 9. (See the state’s listing under recreational use to view business opportunities.)
New Jersey
New Jersey signed the medical marijuana program into law in 2010, but implementation has been slow. Currently, it serves little more than 5,000 patients through five operational treatment centers.
The state is not actively licensing any medical marijuana businesses at this time.
New Mexico
When the state reopens it’s program to applicants, it will have provisions for medical marijuana dispensaries, cultivators, product manufacturers, delivery services and testing facilities.
Currently, the state is not issuing marijuana business licenses.
New York
On July 5, 2014, Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a limited medical marijuana bill into law.
The bill gives the state and Department of Health 18 months to enact regulations and install a patient and business infrastructure to allow the cultivation and sale of medical marijuana to qualifying patients.
Registered organizations (RO) are companies — either for- or not-for-profit agencies — that the state will license to produce and dispense medical marijuana.
The state will permit no more than five ROs, which can operate four dispensaries each.
North Dakota
On November 8, 2016, the state legalized medical marijuana when voters passed Measure 5 by 64 percent.
The regulations of this measure have provisions for nonprofit dispensaries (also known as “Compassionate Care Centers”), which will cultivate a limited amount of medical cannabis and dispense it to enrolled patients.
Applicants will pay a $5,000 non-refundable application fee and if approved, a $25,000 licensing fee.
Ohio
Under new regulations, enacted as of September 8, 2016, Ohio is ready to welcome medical marijuana businesses.
The regulations of this measure have provisions for dispensaries, cultivation facilities, processors and testing facilities.
At present, the state has not indicated when it will open the application period to entrepreneurs.
Oregon
Oregon established the Medical Marijuana Act by Ballot Measure 67, a citizens’ initiative, in November 1998. It modified state law to allow the cultivation, possession and use of marijuana by prescription for patients with certain medical conditions.
In 2013, Oregon House Bill 3460 became law, allowing registered medical marijuana dispensaries. The legislation went into effect on March 1, 2014.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania enacted regulations on April 17, 2016, that include provisions for dispensaries, cultivators and product manufacturers.
The state will open applications beginning January 17, 2017. All permit applications will be accepted from February 20, 2017, until March 20, 2017.
There will be a capital requirement for each type of business. An applicant for a grower/processor permit must provide an affidavit that the applicant has at least $2 million in capital, $500,000 of which must be on deposit with one or more financial institutions.
An applicant for a dispensary permit shall provide an affidavit that the applicant has at least $150,000 on deposit with one or more financial institutions.
Rhode Island
Under emergency regulations, enacted as of October 25, 2016, Rhode Island will accept applications for medical marijuana cultivation businesses until April 30, 2017.
Under the Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-35-2.10), the Department of Business Regulations (DBR) will be responsible for licensing would be entrepreneurs.
There will be a $5,000 non-refundable fee at the time of application. License fees range from $20,000 to $80,000 depending on the class of license issued.
Vermont
When the state reopens it’s program to applicants, it will have provisions for medical marijuana dispensaries, which may acquire, possess, cultivate, transport, sell and dispense marijuana and related products and supplies to enrolled patients and their caregivers.
Currently, the state is not issuing marijuana business licenses.
Virginia
On February 26, 2015, Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe signed HB 1445 into law. This measure will provide an affirmative defense to patients who have intractable epilepsy (and, for minors, their parents or legal guardians) for the possession of marijuana extracts that contain at least 15 percent of either cannabidiol (CBD) or THC-A and no more than 5 percent THC.
By merely providing an affirmative defense, the law has no provisions for any marijuana business.
Washington
The Cannabis Patient Protection Act — SB 5052 integrates the medical market with the regulated recreational market.
Under the act, the Department of Health adopted rules for a medical marijuana authorization database, training and certification of medical marijuana stores, consultants and product compliance.
Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. licensed a very limited number of dispensaries and cultivation centers in 2013 and 2014. There is no system presently in place to permit the issuance of additional licenses.
Wisconsin
Gov. Scott Walker signed a very limited medical cannabis bill (A.B. 726) into law. It exempts a distinct class of individuals from criminal penalties for the use and possession of cannabidiol “in a form without a psychoactive effect.”
There are no stipulations for any businesses to open around this very limited law.
States that Allow Recreational Marijuana Use
Alaska
On November 4, 2014, Alaskans passed Measure 2, which institutes a system to tax and regulate marijuana like alcohol through the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board.
Adults age 21 and older may possess up to one ounce of marijuana and grow up to six plants (with no more than three being mature) for personal use.
The measure also includes provisions for businesses to grow, test and sell marijuana and paraphernalia to persons over age 21.
California
Proposition 64, also known as the Adult Use of Marijuana Act, passed on November 8, 2016, legalized the sale and distribution of cannabis by individuals and commercial businesses. Licenses will be issued for cultivation and business establishment beginning in 2018.
The regulations of this measure have provisions for retail marijuana stores, product manufacturers, cultivators, testing facilities and distributors.
Colorado
Colorado Amendment 64 legalized the sale and possession of marijuana for non-medical uses on November 6, 2012, including private cultivation of up to six marijuana plants, with no more than three being mature. The state also lets business owners open a medical or retail marijuana dispensary.
Business owners must be current residents living in the state for at least two years before applying for a license.
Maine
Under the new regulations, enacted as of November 8, 2016, Maine will be opening its doors to recreational marijuana businesses.
The regulations of this measure have provisions for marijuana stores, social clubs and cultivation, product manufacturing and testing facilities.
As of right now, the state has yet to establish an application process.
Massachusetts
Under the new regulations, enacted as of November 8, 2016, Massachusetts became the first state on the east coast to be open to recreational marijuana businesses.
The rules of this measure, which went into effect December 15, 2016, have provisions for marijuana stores, product manufacturers, cultivators and testing facilities.
The state has yet to establish an application process but is mandated to begin accepting applications no later than October 1, 2017.
Nevada
Under the new regulations, enacted as of November 8, 2016, Nevada will be open for recreational marijuana businesses.
The tenants of this measure, which will become effective January 1, 2017, have provisions for retail stores, product manufacturers, cultivators, testing facilities and distributors.
The state has yet to indicate when it will open the licensing period but is required to establish the rules and licensing procedures by January 1, 2018.
Also, under the new law, only businesses that already have medical marijuana certificates will be allowed to apply for recreational licenses for the first 18 months the program is open.
Oregon
On July 1, 2015, Measure 91 legalized the possession and cultivation of marijuana by adults 21 and older for recreational use.
The Oregon Liquor Control Commission allows dispensaries, retail stores, cultivators and manufacturing businesses to operate legally within the state.
There will be a $250 non-refundable fee at the time of application. The initial license fee is $4,750.
Washington
Marijuana was legalized by Washington Initiative 502 in 2012. The law requires state licenses from all sellers, distributors, cultivators and producers of marijuana.
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States with No Medical or Recreational Marijuana Use Laws
States that currently prohibit marijuana use include:
- Alabama
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Mississippi
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
Information used in preparing this guide came from the following sources:
- Governing.com, an online resource covering politics, policy and management for state and local government leaders;
- Green Rush Consulting, a marijuana business consulting firm;
- Greenzipp, a medical and recreational marijuana consulting firm;
- NORML, an advocacy organization supporting legalization of marijuana;
- ProCon.org, a site that addresses controversial topics;
- Wikipedia: Legality of cannabis by U.S. jurisdiction.
Marijuana Dispensary Photo via Shutterstock
Question 4 (2016) results by town. Towns with a majority of 'yes' votes in green and towns with a majority of 'no' votes in red.
Legal status of recreational marijuana retail shops in Massachusetts by town as of October 29, 2018. Towns in red have implemented permanent bans, towns in yellow have implemented moratoriums, and towns in green have not implemented a permanent ban or a moratorium.[1]
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Marijuana (Cannabis sativa)
Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Laws
Cannabis in Massachusetts relates to the legal and cultural events surrounding the use of cannabis. A century after becoming the first U.S. state to criminalize recreational cannabis, Massachusetts voters elected to legalize it in 2016.[2]
In 2008 Massachusetts voters decriminalized[3] the possession of small amounts of marijuana.[4] Massachusetts became the eighteenth state to legalize medical marijuana when voters passed a ballot in 2012,[5] even though the federal government still lists marijuana as a Schedule 1 controlled substance with no medical value. Recreational marijuana is legal in Massachusetts as of December 15, 2016, following a ballot initiative in November of that year.[6]
As of 2010 almost 10% of Massachusetts residents over the age of 12 had used marijuana in the past month, and almost 16% had used marijuana within the past year.[7] The largest event for the support of the legalization of marijuana, the Boston Freedom Rally, takes place annually in September. People come from surrounding areas to attend this rally[8]
- 1Legality
- 1.4Recreational cannabis
- 1.4.1Overview
- 1.4Recreational cannabis
- 2Culture
Legality[edit]
Recreational marijuana is regulated and taxed but legal in Massachusetts, with retail sales from licensed dealers becoming legal on November 20, 2018. Legalization occurred in staging, with decriminalization followed by legal medical marijuana before full legalization.
Restriction[edit]
In 1911 (some sources state 1914[9]) Massachusetts became the first state to restrict cannabis on a state level, prohibiting the sale of 'Indian hemp' without a prescription.[10]
Decriminalization[edit]
On November 4, 2008, Massachusetts voters passed a ballot that decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana.[4] The Massachusetts Sensible Marijuana Policy Initiative made the possession of less than one ounce of marijuana punishable by a fine of $100 without the possessor being reported to the state's criminal history board.[11] Minors also had to notify their parents, take a drug awareness program, and complete 10 hours of community service. Before decriminalization, people charged faced up to six months in jail and a $500 fine.[12]
The proponents of the change argued that:[13]
- The change would keep the existing policies regarding growing, trafficking, and driving under the influence of the drug, while protecting those caught from a tainted criminal record
- Massachusetts could save $130 million each year
- Convictions of less than one ounce have been shown to have little or no impact on drug use
The opponents argued that the decriminalization would:[4]
- Promote use of the drug and protect dealers
- Increase violence
- Create hazardous workplaces
- Increase car crashes
The law went into effect January 2009.[12]
Medical marijuana[edit]
On November 6, 2012, 63% of Massachusetts voters approved Question 3, the Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Initiative.[14] The law took effect on January 1, 2013, eliminating criminal and civil penalties for the possessions and use of up to a 60-day supply of marijuana for patients possessing a state issued registration card. With a recommendation by a physician, patients with cancer, glaucoma, and other medical conditions can receive a registration card. The law allows for 35 state-licensed non-profit dispensaries. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has until May 1, 2013 to issue further regulations. Marijuana dispensaries will not be able to open until after the regulations have been set.[15] The Massachusetts Medical Society opposes the bill, saying there is no scientific proof that marijuana is safe and effective.[14] After the law passed, towns attempted to ban dispensaries. Attorney General Martha M. Coakley ruled that cities and towns cannot ban dispensaries, and can only regulate them. Complete bans would conflict with the law.[16]
Recreational cannabis[edit]
Overview[edit]
In the November 8, 2016 election, Massachusetts voters passed a ballot initiative (Question 4) making recreational cannabis legal in the state.[6]
Provisions for home use and cultivation went into effect on December 15, 2016.[17] Individuals are allowed to possess and purchase up to one ounce at a time, and if driving it must be locked up and not openly visible. Each household can grow up to six plants, or twelve for those with more than one adult, but the plants cannot be visible from the street. Households can store up to ten ounces, or more if harvested from a home crop.
Smoking marijuana on public property, including parks and sidewalks, is illegal, as is smoking it while driving. An unlicensed sale (including barter) is illegal for the seller but not the buyer; giving away home-grown marijuana for free is allowed.
Sales[edit]
Governor Charlie Baker signed legislation on December 30, 2016 extending the start date for legal licensed recreational cannabis sales by six months, to July 2018. The extended ban eventually lasted 8 months past the original effective date of the initiative. The law legalizing recreational cannabis in Massachusetts was signed into effect on July 28, 2017. It is codified at G.L. Ch. 94G. The law permits an individual to carry up to 1 ounce on their person and have up to 10 ounces in their home.
While the recreational marijuana industry in Massachusetts was initially overseen by the Department of Health, the Cannabis Control Commission took charge of the administration of the industry in December 2018. The Commission is responsible for promulgating regulations relating to marijuana, processing business applications and issuing licenses, and creating policies and procedures which 'promote and encourage full participation in the regulated marijuana industry by people from communities that have previously been disproportionately harmed by marijuana prohibition and enforcement and to positively impact those communities.'[18]
Cities and towns have the power to require permits, block recreational stores from locating in certain areas (through zoning bylaws) or from locating in the municipality at all. However, the law mandates that a ban must be approved by a local referendum if the majority of voters in the municipality were in favor of the statewide Question 4; otherwise, the city council can approve a ban on its own. Applicants must also hold a community meeting and negotiate an agreement with the host municipality in order to get a state license. As of March 2018, 59 municipalities had enacted a permanent ban, and 130 had enacted a temporary moratorium (all of which end sometime in 2018).[19]
Retail and medical marijuana businesses must also negotiate a Community Host Agreement with the city or town in which it is located pursuant to Massachusetts Law. Cities and towns are permitted to assess a community impact fee of up to 3% of the businesses annual revenue. The agreement may be in place for no more than 5 years. However, towns and cities throughout Massachusetts have not followed these requirements.
Retail sales have a 10.75% excise tax on the marijuana, on top of the general 6.25% state sales tax, and up to a 3% local option tax, for a total of 17%–20% tax.[20] Treasurer Deborah Goldberg unilaterally increased the excise tax to 10.75% from the 3.75% approved by voters in the language of ballot question.[21]
The first recreational license for cultivation only was granted on Jun 21, 2018, so no sales occurred on the first day of legalization, July 1.[22] New licensees have to wait for approval before planting, so existing medical dispensaries that expand to recreational sales have a competitive advantage, but must also wait for recreational approval.[23] Licensing of delivery services (other than for medical marijuana) was further delayed by the Cannabis Control Commission, as was that for on-site consumption.[23]
The first two stores opened on November 20, 2018, in Northampton and Leicester, after testing labs had been approved and begun operations, and the stores received final sign-off.[24] During the first week of sales, excluding Thanksgiving Day where both locations were closed, $2,217,621.13 in sales was sold between the two locations.[25]
Between November 20, 2018 and January 20, 2019, consumers purchased nearly $24 million on recreational marijuana products and the state has received about $4 million in tax revenue. As of late January 2019, the state now has nine stores licensed to sell recreational marijuana.[26]
Charlie Baker administration (2015–Present)[edit]
Massachusetts GovernorCharlie Baker, along with the Speaker of the State House of RepresentativesRobert DeLeo,[27]State Attorney GeneralMaura Healey,[28]State TreasurerDeb Goldberg,[29] and Boston MayorMarty Walsh,[28] opposed the 2016 ballot initiative to legalize the recreational use of marijuana in the state, but after its passage stated 'Our view on this is the people spoke and we're going to honor that, but we need to make sure that we implement this in a way..[that protects] public safety and [ensures] that only those who are supposed to have access to these products will.'[30] The month following the ballot initiative's passage, Baker signed into law a six-month delay in the issuance of licenses for retailing marijuana in shops from January 2018 to July 2018,[31] and in July 2017, signed into law a compromise bill that increased the excise tax on marijuana sales, expanded the size of the Cannabis Control Commission created by the ballot initiative, mandated background checks for Commission and marijuana shop employees, shifted control of the state's medical cannabis program from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to the Commission, and created rules for town governments to restrict or ban marijuana shops based on the results of the 2016 ballot initiative within their jurisdiction.[32]
In August 2017, Baker appointed State SenatorJennifer Flanagan to the Cannabis Control Commission and five members of the Cannabis Advisory Board that advises the Commission,[33][34] and the following month, the Commission met for the first time.[35] In January 2018, Baker proposed a $7.6 million budget for the Commission in his state budget proposal for fiscal year 2019.[36] Also in January 2018, after U.S. Attorney GeneralJeff Sessions rescinded the ObamaJustice Department's Cole Memorandum,[37] as well as making personal requests to congressional leaders to not renew the Rohrabacher–Farr amendment in the previous year,[38] Baker expressed opposition to the rescission, with his administration stating that it 'believes this is the wrong decision and will review any potential impacts from any policy changes by the local U.S. Attorney's Office', and Baker reiterated his support for implementing the legal and regulated recreational marijuana market as passed by voters on the 2016 ballot initiative.[39] In addition, Baker has also expressed concerns about federal prosecutors creating confusion and uncertainty in states where marijuana has been legalized for either medical or recreational usage,[40] and argued that the Massachusetts U.S. Attorney's Office, instead of prosecuting local marijuana businesses, should focus its resources on resolving the opioid epidemic in the state (identifying fentanyl in particular).[41]
After meeting with the incoming U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling in February 2018, Baker stated the following month that Lelling 'made pretty clear his primary focus is going to be on fentanyl and heroin', and that after speaking with governors in other states with legal recreational marijuana markets at a National Governors Association meeting, Baker said that he 'did not get the impression any of them felt there had been a significant change in their relationship with the U.S. attorneys in their states as a result of the change in the administration.. because people are pretty focused on the opioid issue.'[42] Also in February 2018, Baker argued that the Cannabis Control Commission should create its regulatory framework in incremental steps by prioritizing marijuana shops over cafés, saying 'that if they try to unwrap the entire package straight out of the gate, the role and responsibility they have as an overseer and as a regulator is going to be compromised', reiterating that the purpose of legalization was to create a 'safe, reliable, legal market' in the state.[43]
In March 2018, The Boston Globe reported that 189 of the 351 Massachusetts cities and towns had either indefinitely or temporarily banned retail marijuana stores.[44] In June 2018, Baker, along with 11 other governors, wrote a letter to Speaker of the U.S. House of RepresentativesPaul Ryan, U.S. House Minority LeaderNancy Pelosi, U.S. Senate Majority LeaderMitch McConnell, and U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urging the passage of the bipartisan STATES Act sponsored by Massachusetts SenatorElizabeth Warren and Colorado SenatorCory Gardner.[45] In the same month, Massachusetts Attorney GeneralMaura Healey ruled that municipalities with moratoriums on recreational marijuana sales would be allowed to extend them for another year.[46]
Also in June 2018, with marijuana sales in the state scheduled to begin the following month and no recreational marijuana retail licenses having being issued, Cannabis Control Commission Chairman Steven Hoffman stated that 'We have said from the start that July 1 is not a legislative mandate, it's our objective and we are going to try to meet that objective, but we are going to do it right', with other Commission regulators noting that only 53 of 1,145 applications for marijuana business licenses were complete and ready for review.[47] On July 2, 2018, Baker praised the Commission's work in creating the regulatory framework for the recreational marijuana industry in the state, and expressed support for the Commission's decision to roll out the industry more slowly, stating 'It's very clear that you only get one shot to roll this out, and it's very hard to change if you don't do what you think you should have done the first time.'[48]
On the same day, the Commission voted unanimously to grant the first recreational marijuana retail license to a medical dispensary in Leicester.[49] In November 2018, after the Cannabis Control Commission approved their final business licenses the previous month,[50] the state's first two retail marijuana shops opened in Leicester and Northampton and the two shops recorded $2.2 million in sales of marijuana products during their first week.[51][52] The following month, the Cannabis Control Commission approved licenses for retail stores in Salem,[53]Easthampton,[54] and Wareham,[54] and Cannabis Control Commission Chair Steven Hoffman estimated that the state would begin to see four to eight new retail stores opening each month.[55]
Bans and moratoriums by town[edit]
As of October 29, 2018, the following 180 towns had either a permanent ban (84) or a moratorium (96) currently in place on retail marijuana stores:[1]
|
|
Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard[edit]
Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard are islands which are separated from the mainland by federal waters. The state medical marijuana law requires a dispensary in every county; each island is its own county, but the problem of federal jurisdiction has created a legal hurdle to shipping mainland-grown product to the islands.[57] State law requires marijuana grown on the island to be tested in state labs, which are located on the mainland, so crossing through federal jurisdiction is also a problem for growers.[58]
Though the Steamship Authority is run by the state, anyone transporting marijuana by sea could be subject to arrest by the United States Coast Guard.[57] Similar problems exist in transporting marijuana to and from islands in Hawaii[57] and Washington State,[58] but as of 2018 it appears the Coast Guard has not taken enforcement action against those legally possessing marijuana under state law, despite asserting it will do so.
The Federal Aviation Administration could terminate the license of a pilot knowingly transporting marijuana, but there is some legal question as to whether air transport of marijuana authorized by state law is acceptable under an FAA regulation with ambiguous wording.[58] The Transportation Security Administration does not have the legal authority to enforce federal law, only to protect the security of aircraft. Illegal drugs found by TSA at airport security checkpoints (which are not in the scope of what they are searching for in the first place) are referred to local law enforcement; in Massachusetts possession of under one ounce is legal, so state police will take no action.[59] People transporting marijuana by plane are subject to arrest by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Air Marshal Service, though in practice minor violations are typically referred to local law enforcement.[59]
Public opinion[edit]
Poll source | Date(s) administered | Sample size | Margin of error | % support | % opposition | % Undecided/Don't Know |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Western New England University | October 23–November 2, 2016 | 417 LV | ± 4.5% | 61% | 34% | 5% |
Suffolk University/The Boston Globe | October 24–26, 2016 | 500 LV | ± 4.4% | 48.8% | 42.4% | 8.8% |
WBUR/MassINC Polling Group | October 13–16, 2016 | 502 LV | ± 4.4% | 55% | 40% | 5% |
Western New England University | September 24–October 3, 2016 | 403 LV | ± 5.0% | 52% | 42% | 6% |
467 RV | ± 5.0% | 55% | 39% | 6% | ||
WBZ/UMass Amherst | September 15–20, 2016 | 700 LV | ± 4.3% | 53% | 40% | 7% |
800 RV | ± 4.1% | 51% | 40% | 9% | ||
WBUR/MassINC Polling Group | September 7–10, 2016 | 506 LV | ± 4.4% | 50% | 45% | 5% |
Gravis Marketing/Jobs First | July 12–13, 2016 | 901 RV | ± 3.3% | 41% | 51% | 9% |
Suffolk University/The Boston Globe | May 2–5, 2016 | 500 LV | ± 4.4% | 43.0% | 45.8% | 11% |
April 1–10, 2016 | 497 RV | ± 4% | 57% | 35% | 7% | |
UMass Amherst/WBZ | February 19–25, 2016 | 891 RV | ± 4.1% | 53% | 40% | 7% |
Emerson College | October 16–18, 2015 | 629 RV | ± 3.9% | 40.5% | 47.6% | 11.9% |
The Boston Globe | June 22–24/June 29-July 1, 2014 | 601 LV | ± 4% | 48% | 47% | 5% |
WBUR/MassINC Polling Group | May 16–18, 2014 | 504 LV | ± 4.4% | 49% | 42% | 9% |
WBUR/MassINC Polling Group | March 14–16, 2014 | 500 LV | ± 4.4% | 48% | 41% | 10% |
Boston Herald/Suffolk University | January 29-February 3, 2014 | 600 LV | ± 4.0% | 53.17% | 37.17% | 9.67% |
Western New England University | November 5-November 11, 2013 | 467 RV | ± 4.5% | 39% | 52% | 9% |
Culture[edit]
Usage[edit]
Marijuana is the most common illegal drug used in the United States. A 2007 survey showed that over 100 million US citizens over the age of 12 have used marijuana. More teenagers are current users of marijuana than cigarettes.[60] The following chart shows percentages of Massachusetts' population's marijuana usage using data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration based on surveys from 2010 and 2011.[7]
Ages | 12+ | 12-17 | 18-25 | 26+ |
---|---|---|---|---|
Past Year | 15.89 | 18.31 | 42.33 | 10.98 |
Past Month | 9.96 | 11.32 | 28.42 | 6.56 |
Cultivation[edit]
Assessing the total cultivation of marijuana in the United States was difficult, and even more difficult by a statewide basis due to the illegality of the drug. In the ballot of 2016, growing and cultivating the plant was legalized. In 2006 it was estimated that there was 22 million pounds of domestic crop. Including the imported crop from Mexico and Canada, Dr. Jon Gettman estimates there is approximately $100 billion worth of crop available in the United States.[61] Gettman's study, Marijuana Production in the United States, shows that Massachusetts ranks 44th marijuana cultivation by state, producing 12,700 lbs. of marijuana worth $20 million.[62]
Events[edit]
2008 Freedom Rally in Boston
The Boston Freedom Rally is an annual event on the third Saturday in September. It is the second largest annual gathering demanding marijuana law reform in the United States. The Massachusetts Cannabis Reform Coalition organizes the event. The event began in 1989, and has been held on the Boston Common since 1992. The city of Boston has tried to stop the event, but has been unable to do so.[8]
See also[edit]
References[edit]
- ^ abJarmanning, Ally; Fujiwara, Daigo (June 28, 2018). 'Where Marijuana Stores Can — And Can't — Open In Mass'. WBUR. Retrieved June 28, 2018.
- ^Miller, Joshua (8 November 2016). 'Mass. voters say 'yes' to legalizing marijuana'. The Boston Globe. Retrieved 9 November 2016.
- ^'Marijuana Laws Massachusetts'.
- ^ abcAbel, David (November 4, 2008). 'Mass. voters OK decriminalization of marijuana'. Boston.com. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^Altieri, Erik (November 6, 2012). 'Massachusetts Becomes 18th State to Legalize Medical Marijuana'. NORML. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^ abBlair, Russell (November 8, 2016). 'Recreational Marijuana Passes In Massachusetts'. Hartford Courant.
- ^ ab'2010-2011 National Survey on Drug Use and Health Model-Based Estimates'(PDF). Table 2 and 3. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
- ^ ab'Mass Cann'. MASS CANN. Retrieved March 31, 2013.
- ^Ronald Hamowy (1 January 2008). Government and Public Health in America. Edward Elgar Publishing. pp. 234–. ISBN978-1-84720-425-7.
- ^Dale H. Gieringer; Ed Rosenthal; Gregory T. Carter (2008). Marijuana Medical Handbook: Practical Guide to Therapeutic Uses of Marijuana. Quick American. pp. 117–. ISBN978-0-932551-86-3.
- ^'Marijuana Laws Massachusetts'.
- ^ ab'General Laws'. 188th General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^Crimaldi, Laura (January 27, 2008). 'Marijuana measures head to voters'. Boston Herald.
- ^ ab'Medical marijuana law passes in Massachusetts'. CBS News. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
- ^'Massachusetts Medical Marijuana'. NORML. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^Stilts, Josh (March 15, 2013). 'Massachusetts medical marijuana dispensaries may open this summer'. The Berkshire Eagle. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
- ^Legal weed: What you can and can’t do in Massachusetts
- ^G.L. ch. 94G § 4.
- ^Pot shops face bans in most of Mass.
- ^Scarboro, Morgan (2017-08-01). 'Massachusetts Increases Marijuana Tax Rate'. The Tax Foundation. Retrieved 2018-01-03.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (2016-08-05). 'Treasurer Deb Goldberg says proposed tax rate for legal marijuana in Massachusetts is too low'. Mass Live. Retrieved 2019-02-14.
- ^Massachusetts Issues First Recreational Marijuana License
- ^ abEverything you need to know about Massachusetts’ new pot rules
- ^Senne, Steven; Salsberg, Bob (20 November 2018). 'Recreational marijuana sales began in Massachusetts. Here's how it went. Cultivate in Leicester and New England Treatment Access (NETA) in Northampton made history Tuesday morning'. Boston.com/AP.
- ^MacNeill, Arriana (27 November 2018). 'Here's how much was spent on recreational marijuana in the first week'. Boston.com.
- ^Gans, Felicia (2019-01-24). 'In first 2 months of legal pot sales, public spent nearly $24m'. The Boston Globe. Retrieved 2019-01-25.
- ^Schoenberg, Shira (April 14, 2016). 'Gov. Charlie Baker, Speaker Robert DeLeo team up to create anti-marijuana legalization ballot committee'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 22, 2018.
- ^ abLevenson, Eric (March 7, 2016). 'Massachusetts's most powerful politicians come out against legal marijuana'. Boston.com. Boston Globe Media Partners. Retrieved April 22, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautus (October 5, 2016). 'Treasurer Deb Goldberg says proposed tax rate for legal marijuana in Massachusetts is too low'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 22, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (November 9, 2016). 'Legal marijuana: Gov. Charlie Baker says new law should be implemented 'briskly''. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 19, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (December 30, 2016). 'Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker signs new law delaying retail pot shops'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved January 5, 2017.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (July 25, 2017). 'Massachusetts marijuana laws got a Statehouse rewrite. Here's what you need to know'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 18, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (August 23, 2017). 'Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker appoints state Sen. Jennifer Flanagan to Cannabis Control Commission'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 18, 2018.
- ^'Governor Baker Names Five to Cannabis Advisory Board'. www.mass.gov. August 4, 2017. Retrieved April 22, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (September 12, 2017). 'The new Massachusetts Cannabis Commission meets for the first time today'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 18, 2018.
- ^Schoenberg, Shira (January 30, 2018). 'Governor's budget would give $7.6 million to marijuana oversight commission'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 18, 2018.
- ^Schoenberg, Shira (January 4, 2018). 'Report: AG Jeff Sessions will rescind policy letting states legalize marijuana'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^Ingraham, Christopher (June 13, 2017). 'Jeff Sessions personally asked Congress to let him prosecute medical-marijuana providers'. The Washington Post. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^Schoenberg, Shira (January 4, 2018). 'Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker opposes AG Jeff Sessions' decision to rescind policy letting states legalize marijuana'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (January 5, 2018). 'Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker says he's worried about federal officials sowing confusion about legal marijuana'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (January 9, 2018). 'Instead of marijuana crackdown, federal prosecutors should focus on fentanyl, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker says'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved February 22, 2018.
- ^Young, Colin A. (March 14, 2018). 'Baker: States with legal pot not worried about fed crackdown'. The Salem News. CNHI. Retrieved April 19, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (February 8, 2018). 'Massachusetts retail marijuana shops need to be in place in July, pot cafes not so much, Gov. Charlie Baker says'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved April 19, 2018.
- ^DeCosta-Klipa, Nik (May 1, 2018). 'More than half of Massachusetts has banned legal pot shops. Seth Moulton says that's a mistake'. Boston.com. Boston Globe Media Partners. Retrieved June 20, 2018.
- ^Dumcius, Gintautas (June 8, 2018). 'Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker backs Sen. Elizabeth Warren's marijuana bill, urges Capitol Hill leaders to pass the legislation'. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved June 14, 2018.
- ^'Under Mass. Attorney General Decision, Marijuana Moratoriums Can Last Longer'. WBUR. June 25, 2018. Retrieved June 28, 2018.
- ^'Still no pot shop licenses in state, July 1 target in doubt'. WCVB. June 14, 2018. Retrieved June 21, 2018.
- ^Schoenberg, Shira (July 2, 2018). 'With no Massachusetts retail marijuana stores open by July 1, Gov. Charlie Baker says Cannabis Control Commission doing a 'great job''. MassLive.com. Advance Publications. Retrieved July 5, 2018.
- ^Congi, Sera (July 2, 2018). 'First retail marijuana shop hopes to start sales within weeks'. WCVB. Retrieved July 2, 2018.
- ^Young, Colin A. (October 4, 2018). 'The State's First Recreational Marijuana Shops Are OK'd For Leicester And Northampton'. WBUR. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^'Recreational Marijuana Sales Begin In Massachusetts Tuesday'. WBUR. November 19, 2018. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^'Legal Pot Shops In Mass. Sold More Than $2.2 Million In Their First Week'. WBUR. November 27, 2018. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^Jarmanning, Ally (December 11, 2018). 'First Eastern Mass. Recreational Marijuana Store Gets OK To Open'. WBUR. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^ abYoung, Colin A. (December 17, 2018). 'Retail Marijuana Stores Given OK To Open In Easthampton And Wareham'. WBUR. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^Young, Colin A. (December 27, 2018). 'CCC Chair Could See 8 New Marijuana Retail Stores A Month'. WBUR. Retrieved January 5, 2019.
- ^Tzouvelis, Joanna (May 1, 2018). 'Belmont Town Meeting approves marijuana moratorium and sales tax, plastic bag ban'. Belmont Citizen-Herald. GateHouse Media. Retrieved December 29, 2018.
- ^ abcFederal Drug Laws Create Medical Marijuana Conundrum On Martha's Vineyard
- ^ abcState eyes flight rule to ship marijuana to islands
- ^ abWhat happens if you bring pot to Logan?
- ^'Drug Facts: Marijuana'. National Institute on Drug Abuse. December 2012. Retrieved March 30, 2013.
- ^'Marijuana Economics 101'. PBS. July 26, 2011. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
- ^Gettmann, John. 'Marijuana Production in the United States (2006)'(PDF). Appendix 3a. Retrieved April 3, 2013.
External links[edit]
Retrieved from 'https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Cannabis_in_Massachusetts&oldid=901074828'