Maine marijuana sales topped $20 million in May for the first time this year.
According to data from the Maine Office of Cannabis Policy, marijuana sales reached $20,280,736 in May, marking a $1 million increase over the roughly $19 million sold in both March and April. May sales occurred across 381,148 transactions.
The average price per gram of dried marijuana in May increased slightly from last month’s all-time low of $7.18 to $7.41.
Total sales for the year reached $94,313,785, spread across 1,739,092 transactions.
In Maine, recreational marijuana was legalized in 2016, allowing individuals at least 21 years old to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana, which can be purchased from any licensed retail outlet. Despite legalization, bureaucratic delays meant the first store did not open until 2020. Under Maine’s marijuana law, sales are subject to a 5.5% tax, with an additional 8% excise tax on marijuana-infused edibles. Sales of medical marijuana are tax-free.
Last month it was announced that Maine will soon implement new marijuana regulations that will align marijuana retail outlets more closely with those of liquor stores. Changes include:
- The elimination of ID checks at the entrance.
- Permission for minors to enter stores with their legal guardians.
- The provision of product samples.
In April Maine Governor Janet Mills signed into law a bill to allow those with convictions for possessing or cultivating marijuana to have the charges sealed (completely hidden) from their criminal record.
