Maine lawmakers have given final approval to legislation that would raise the state’s adult-use marijuana sales tax, apply the same rate to potentially intoxicating hemp products, and create a new excise tax structure for cannabis pre-rolls.
House Bill 1942, sponsored by Representative Daniel Sayre (D) and cosponsored by Senator Bruce Bickford (R), has now cleared both chambers and is being sent to the governor. The House originally passed the bill March 26 by a vote of 89 to 55, and the Senate later approved it 23 to 9 after adopting an additional amendment. The House then concurred with the Senate’s changes on April 7.
As finalized, the measure would raise Maine’s sales tax on adult-use marijuana and marijuana products from 10% to 14%, and it would impose a 14% sales tax on potentially intoxicating hemp products.
The bill would also impose an excise tax on cannabis pre-rolls, applying Maine’s existing marijuana excise tax based on the amount of marijuana flower or trim contained in each pre-roll. The tax would also apply to pre-rolls infused with marijuana concentrate.
The measure would also shift the deadline for cultivation facility licensees to file and pay cannabis excise taxes. Through the end of 2026, returns would remain due by the 15th day of each month. Starting January 1, 2027, that deadline would move to the last day of each month.
If signed into law, the tax increase on adult-use marijuana would take effect at the start of 2026, with the hemp tax and pre-roll excise changes taking effect one year later.
Sponsored
