Maine is implementing new marijuana regulations that will align cannabis retail environments more closely with those of liquor stores.
The changes to the state’s marijuana program, championed by State Senator Craig Hickman, is set to transform both the shopping experience and storage practices at cannabis outlets. This law is expected to take effect by this summer and will introduce several changes including:
- The elimination of ID checks at the entrance.
- Permission for minors to enter stores with their legal guardians.
- The provision of product samples.
Additionally, the Maine Legislature recently passed an emergency measure to simplify packaging standards. This adjustment will particularly ease the labeling of certain edible products, like gummies, by removing the need to mark each item with a universal symbol.
According to the Maine Office of Cannabis Policy, in March there was $19,144,646 in legal marijuana sales, a roughly 15% increase from the previous year.
Last month Maine Governor Janet Mills signed into law legislation that allows those with convicted of possessing or cultivating marijuana to have the charges sealed (completely hidden) from their criminal record.
Recreational marijuana has been legal in Maine since 2016, enabling individuals aged 21 and over to possess up to 2.5 ounces and purchase from licensed retailers. The first licensed marijuana store opened in 2020, following years of delays.
