Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission Debuts New Public Education Videos Ahead of 4/20 to Remind Adults to Consume Responsibly

Content highlights responsible out-of-home consumption practices ahead of the implementation of Social Consumption Establishments

WORCESTER—This April, the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (Commission) is reminding adults to consume responsibly with new public education resources as it continues to stand up the infrastructure that will support future licensed on-site consumption venues in the Commonwealth.

In recognition of the unofficial consumer “4/20” holiday, which falls on Patriots’ Day this year, the agency is rolling out four new videos highlighting the need for constituents to “Make a Plan” if they opt to consume cannabis outside the home or participate in a cannabis-centric social gathering on Monday.

Visit the “responsible use” section of MoreAboutMJ.org to view the Commission’s new out-of-home consumption public education videos.

“For this year’s April 20 holiday, the Commission is encouraging cannabis users to ‘Make A Plan’ before consuming to ensure the health and safety of all Massachusetts residents,” Chair Shannon O’Brien said. “The Commission has plenty of educational resources available for adults and engaged stakeholders on subjects ranging from health effects to how to talk to kids about cannabis. Whether it’s for 4/20 or any other day, please take advantage of the resources available through More About Marijuana and other public information campaigns.” 

“Increasing public awareness about best practices for safe cannabis consumption continues to be one of our most critical mandates as a state regulatory agency,” Executive Director Travis Ahern said. “As we work towards the arrival of licensed, on-site consumption activities to Massachusetts, it is important that adults ages 21 and older understand their rights and responsibilities and ‘make a plan’ to stay safe if they choose to celebrate 4/20 this year.” 

Commissioners unanimously approved three new social consumption business models that were promulgated in regulation in January, making way for potential cannabis use at state-licensed Marijuana Establishments, events and festivals, and businesses that partner with regulated cannabis companies in Massachusetts. Before any social consumption business can open, cities and towns must opt in to allow them, although none have done so as of April. The Commission must also build out internal processes and technology to grant and oversee licenses, which is currently underway through the work of four agency working groups focused on overall implementation, supporting host communities, new training for agents, and social consumption-specific public education.  

If partaking in any festivities this year, consumers should keep in mind where social consumption can and cannot take place:  

• Individuals may gather and socially consume in private homes if they choose, but leaseholders should check rules about indoor smoking and general cannabis use as landlords may have their own policies about consumption. Consumption within federal housing remains illegal. 
• When staying at a hotel or short-term rental, constituents should know that many have policies against using cannabis on their property and should check before consuming on their premises. 
• Private businesses may allow individuals to use their premises for social consumption subject to local zoning, civil, and criminal laws; however, until state-licensed Social Consumption Establishments are available, Marijuana Establishments and other private entities may not sell marijuana or marijuana products to customers for on-site consumption. 
• Cannabis use in public spaces is prohibited in Massachusetts, including on federal land, and may result in criminal penalties. 
• It is illegal to operate a vehicle while using cannabis or while impaired by cannabis. Like alcohol, consumers cannot have an open container of adult-use cannabis in the passenger area of a car while on the road or in an area where the passengers have access; it must be stored in a closed container in your trunk or a locked glove compartment.  
• Cannabis remains illegal under federal law, and it is unlawful to carry cannabis across state lines or federal borders. Marijuana or marijuana products cannot be mailed or transported by plane, even to other jurisdictions where cannabis is legal. 

As part of the “Make a Plan” messaging, the Commission is encouraging adults to utilize public transportation or obtain a sober ride to prevent impaired driving, avoid mixing alcohol and cannabis, and take their time when consuming edibles and other marijuana product types that may have varied onset times for the intoxicating effects. Consumers, parents, and other stakeholders are encouraged to review MoreAboutMJ.org for more information about the health effects of cannabis use, and safe and responsible use.  

Social and otherwise, cannabis consumers should continue to heed state laws and practice these safety tips, including: 

• It is illegal for anyone under age 21 to purchase, possess, or consume adult-use cannabis. 
• Giving or selling adult-use cannabis to minors may be treated as a crime. 
• In households with children or pets, be sure to store marijuana and marijuana products locked away and out of reach. 
• Adults should use public transportation or a rideshare service instead of risking lives by driving while impaired by cannabis. In Massachusetts, adult-use cannabis also can be delivered to the home and licensed businesses that do so are searchable through the state’s “Where to Buy” map. 
• The impairment effects of edible marijuana may be delayed by two hours or more. Start low, go slow. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing a substance-use disorder, the Massachusetts Substance Use Helpline is available online at https://helplinema.org/ and by phone at 800-327-5050. 

Additional consumer health and safety information is available through MoreAboutMJ.org. Contact the agency by emailing Commission@CCCMass.com or calling 774-415-0200. 

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