Adult Use Cannabis Regulations Take Effect in Massachusetts

BOSTON—Today, the Cannabis Control Commission received confirmation that its adult use cannabis regulations, 935 CMR 500.000, took effect in the Commonwealth after they were published in the Code of Massachusetts Regulations.

The Commission filed their final guidelines with Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, William Francis Galvin, on March 9, ahead of the March 15 deadline. Leading up to their filing, the Commission held 10 listening sessions on the regulations, received nearly 500 public comments, and conducted seven public hearings to deliberate on approximately 150 policy decisions.

“Today’s accomplishment is a testament to our diligent team and five, diversely talented leaders who were appointed by the Attorney General, Governor, and Treasurer, envisioned by the State Legislature, and authorized to implement legal, adult use marijuana by the voters in Massachusetts,” said Cannabis Commission Chairman Steven J. Hoffman. “Although we take pride in this moment, the Commission is also acutely aware of the significant work that remains. We look forward to the next phase of starting to license new businesses, and continuing to stand up a safe, equitable, and effective industry in our state.”

The final regulations include nine license categories for Marijuana Establishments: cultivator, craft marijuana cooperative, microbusiness, product manufacturer, independent testing laboratory, storefront retailer, third-party transporter, existing licensee transporter, and research facility.

Starting on April 2, prospective licensees may begin applying for Priority Certification as Registered Marijuana Dispensaries (RMD) or Economic Empowerment Applicants, which provides eligibility to apply for a marijuana establishment license on April 17. All other license types will start the application process on May 1 or June 1, depending on the category.

The official version of 935 CMR 500.000 will be available through the Secretary’s State Publications and Regulations Division and the State Bookstore, Room 116, Boston, MA 02133, by calling (617) 727-2834 or by ordering online.

The Commission’s next public meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 3 at 10:30 a.m. in the Massachusetts Gaming Commission’s public meeting space at 101 Federal Street, 12^th Floor, Boston, MA. For more information, visit the Commission’s website at masscannabiscontrol.com or follow @MA_Cannabis on Twitter.

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