SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) – New legislation signed into law this weekend overhauls the state’s cannabis regulations, restructuring the oversight commission and expanding both business and consumer rights.
The Act Modernizing the Commonwealth’s Cannabis Laws dissolves the Cannabis Control Commission and reduces it from five members to three. Governor Healey now has 30 days to appoint the new commission.
Cannabis retailers can now hold six licenses, double the previous limit of three. They are also now permitted to advertise sales, discounts and loyalty programs inside their stores and via email.
As far as medical marijuana shops go, they are no longer required to be vertically integrated, meaning they do not have to grow all the products they sell.
Now the last part is for the marijuana consumers out there. Big changes just for you. There’s now a higher possession limit.
The legal amount of recreational marijuana an adult can purchase or possess has doubled from one to two ounces without penalty.
For those under 21, possession of marijuana will trigger a penalty, but individuals can now have up to three ounces without being arrested and criminally charged. That’s up from two ounces.
The law also authorizes new marijuana license categories, including event-based use, research licenses and on-site consumption, which could allow for cannabis lounges.
Finally, the law also allows for marijuana deliveries unless a specific city or town prohibits marijuana businesses and opts out of the delivery program.
We should note, though, that there is an effort underway to repeal the state’s laws allowing for marijuana sales and personal cultivation. Supporters hope to have it on the ballot this November.
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