Massachusetts Lawmakers Propose Doubling Cannabis Purchase Limit and Overhauling Regulatory Agency
The Massachusetts Legislature is set to send a bill to Governor Maura Healey that would increase the amount of cannabis adults can purchase or possess for recreational use from one ounce to two. The bill also aims to restructure the Cannabis Control Commission, the state agency responsible for regulating the cannabis industry.
The proposed legislation would reduce the number of CCC members from five to three, with all three members appointed by the governor. This change is intended to improve oversight and accountability by streamlining the agency’s leadership and clarifying roles and responsibilities.
Senator Adam Gómez, a key negotiator of the bill, believes that the legislation recognizes the cannabis industry’s growth and the need for a more efficient and transparent regulatory framework.
The bill would also remove the requirement that medical marijuana businesses cultivate, process, and sell their own cannabis under one license. Lawmakers argue that this change would help smaller businesses access the market more easily.
The proposal comes as a separate effort is underway to repeal the legalization of recreational marijuana and keep the medical marijuana program intact. Activists are working to put a question on the November ballot that would allow adults to possess up to one ounce of cannabis, but eliminate the retail market.
The bill is expected to be voted on in the House and Senate this week, and if passed, would need Governor Healey’s signature to become law.
