Cannabis Control Commission Approves Application Process to Begin April 2

BOSTON—Today the Cannabis Control Commission approved the licensing process for prospective Marijuana Establishments and marijuana establishment agents in order to ensure the safe, equitable, and effective implementation of the adult-use cannabis industry in Massachusetts.

From April 2 – April 16, applicants will apply for Priority Certification as Registered Marijuana Dispensaries (RMD) or Economic Empowerment Applicants to become eligible to apply for a marijuana establishment license on April 16. Priority certification may be granted to RMDs that have secured final or provisional medical licenses through the Department of Public Health as well as Economic Empowerment Applicants who demonstrate experience or business practices promoting economic empowerment in communities disproportionately impacted by marijuana enforcement.

On April 16, certified priority applicants will begin applying for all license types authorized by the Commission. Beginning May 1, Cultivators, Craft Marijuana Cooperatives, Microbusinesses, and Independent Testing Laboratories will apply for their respective licenses. Marijuana Retailers, Product Manufacturers, and Transporters will be able to apply for a license starting June 1.

“The Commission’s decision balances the significant progress we have made over six months with our responsibility to launch an efficient, orderly, and thorough application process in April,” said Executive Director Shawn Collins. “Our approach supports the unknown number of applicants who will be utilizing our licensing system for the first time, and staff who will be charged with certifying that establishments and agents are qualified to serve residents throughout Massachusetts. This choice will help ensure the process moves smoothly, which is in the best interests of the industry and the Commonwealth.”

Earlier this month, the Commission approved and filed with the Secretary of State its final regulations, which outline the application process (view filed section 935 CMR 500.101 for more information). Licensees will be required to submit three packets online, including an application of intent that also demonstrates an agreement has been reached with the establishment’s host community, a background check, and a management and operations profile.

The Commission’s next public meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 20 at 10:30 a.m. in the Massachusetts Gaming Commission’s public meeting space at 101 Federal Street, 12th Floor, Boston, MA. For more information, visit the Commission’s website at masscannabiscontrol.com or follow @MA_Cannabis on Twitter.

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