Now That Recreational Pot Is Legal In Massachusetts, What Does That Mean For Medical Dispensaries?

The state law legalizing marijuana for adult use is now in effect. But what does that mean?

Now that recreational pot is legal in Massachusetts, what does that mean for medical dispensaries? The New England Treatment Access, a medical marijuana dispensary that has a location in Brookline Village, sent some frequently asked questions to patients. Here’s what they said:

Does that mean that anyone can purchase cannabis at a dispensary without a medical card now?

No. The rule making and licensing processes that will regulate the retail sale of marijuana will take a while. The initiative language stipulates that licenses for the sale of cannabis shall be issued by Jan. 1, 2018. The state Legislature may attempt to amend this timeline, but the voters made clear that this is their will and we expect it to be honored.

Will NETA sell adult use cannabis?

Our intent is to participate in the new program.

So what happens on Dec. 15, 2016?

On that date, people 21 years of age or older can legally:

Possess (and use) 1 ounce or less of marijuana flower with up to 5 grams being marijuana concentrate.

Cultivate up to six plants at his/her place of residence and possess up to 10 ounces of marijuana produced from those plants.

Give away to an individual 21 years of age or older 1 ounce or less of marijuana flower with up to 5 grams being marijuana concentrate.

What will happen to NETA’s medical marijuana services?

Nothing will change. NETA will always be here to serve our patients.

What can’t someone do?

Consume marijuana in a public place or where tobacco consumption is prohibited.

Sell marijuana or marijuana products without a state-issued license.

This is just a high-level overview of the language as contained in Question 4. There are many more details involved and we encourage you to read the ballot language yourselves as we cannot provide you with any legal advice. Again, there will certainly be a rule-making process associated with the passage of Q4, and the state legislature is likely to get involved in the process, so expect some changes.

From: Brookline- Wickedlocal