Recreational marijuana sales have officially begun across Minnesota, with new dispensaries opening in Duluth and various Twin Cities locations, marking the state's transition from medical-only to adult-use cannabis sales after legalization in 2023.
The Florida Supreme Court did not issue rulings on proposed amendments for abortion rights and recreational cannabis, frustrating hopes for clarity on their potential placement on the November ballot. The court's failure to release opinions on Thursday, the typical day for such releases, has heightened uncertainty as the April 1 deadline approaches. The proposed abortion amendment aims to limit government interference with abortion, while the recreational cannabis amendment seeks to allow adult use of cannabis. Legal challenges and arguments from both sides have added to the anticipation surrounding these crucial decisions.
As Ohio's new recreational marijuana law is set to go into effect, the Ohio House and Senate have proposed competing legislation to make changes. The Senate's proposal includes eliminating home grow and setting lower THC limits, while the House's proposal, House Bill 354, maintains the home grow provision and establishes guidelines for use and advertising. The bill has bipartisan support in the House, unlike the Senate's version. Both proposals aim to address concerns such as secondhand smoke and advertising targeting minors. Discussions are ongoing, and if negotiations fail, the initiated statute will go into effect as planned.
Experts suggest that despite the availability of cheaper recreational marijuana, some patients in Ohio's medical cannabis program may choose to remain in the program due to the additional hurdles and potential costs associated with recreational use.
Ohio voters will have the opportunity to decide on the legalization of recreational marijuana in November, as the proposal gained enough valid signatures to make it onto the ballot. The initiative, which would regulate cannabis like alcohol, would allow adults aged 21 and older to possess and grow marijuana. It would also impose a 10% tax on each transaction, potentially generating significant tax revenue for the state. This comes alongside another ballot initiative on abortion rights, making it a significant election for social issues in Ohio.
Nine additional recreational cannabis shops have been given approval to open in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region, expanding the retail options for cannabis consumers in the area.
Massachusetts marijuana sales reached a record high of nearly $152 million in June, with recreational cannabis sales accounting for $132.8 million and medical marijuana purchases totaling $19 million. Since the state's adult-use market launched in November 2018, Massachusetts has seen a total of $4.74 billion in adult-use sales. Flower products remained the most popular choice among consumers, and the average price of flower cannabis dropped to a record low of $5.82 per gram. Despite neighboring states like Connecticut and New York expanding their adult-use markets, Massachusetts continues to experience strong sales.
Long Island's first recreational cannabis dispensary, Strain Stars, is preparing for its grand opening this weekend. With a DJ and food trucks, the CEO expects a large turnout and advises customers to anticipate a line. The dispensary will have 15 staff members to assist customers, who must be 21 and over, with a 3-ounce daily purchase limit. Extra armed security will be present both inside and outside the store. Strain Stars has been working towards this opening for over two years and aims to set an example in the industry. The dispensary will operate from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The Coalition to Regulate Alcohol Like Marijuana in Ohio has submitted over 222,000 signatures for a proposed law that would legalize recreational marijuana in the state. The measure would allow adults aged 21 and older to buy, possess, and grow cannabis, with certain limits. The proposal also includes a 10% tax on products, with revenue allocated to administrative costs, addiction treatment programs, municipalities with dispensaries, and a social equity and jobs program. The signatures will be verified by July 20 to determine if the proposal will make it onto the November ballot.
Starting July 1, recreational marijuana use and purchase will be legal for adults 21 and older in Maryland. Adults can possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or a total amount of cannabis products not exceeding 750 mg of THC. Consumption is allowed in private settings but prohibited in public places. Adults can grow up to two marijuana plants at home, share with other adults within legal limits, and purchase cannabis products from licensed dispensaries. Law enforcement will enforce impaired driving laws, and underage use and possession have penalties. Parents are advised to keep marijuana products out of reach of children.
The Minnesota Senate has voted 34-33 to legalize recreational cannabis for adults 21 and older, with a 10% tax on cannabis products and a provision allowing people to have up to 5 pounds of cannabis in their home. Local governments would also be allowed to limit the number of cannabis businesses. Expungements would go into effect in 2025. The bill will now go to a conference committee to work out differences with the House version before heading to the governor's desk.
The recreational cannabis industry in New Mexico has exceeded expectations, bringing in $400 million in revenue in its first year. Local dispensaries report a boost in business and the economy, with officials saying the industry has raised the ceiling for the state. The Regulation and Licensing Department plans to focus on compliance and promoting the industry moving forward.