The Maine Office of Cannabis Policy will distribute 12,000 free lockable storage bags to marijuana consumers and patients across the state this fall, more than doubling the number provided through a pilot program launched in 2024.
The bags will be available through more than 140 participating medical and recreational marijuana retailers, as well as public health advocates serving all nine of Maine’s public health districts. The initiative is intended to reduce accidental ingestions and prevent children, pets and guests from accessing marijuana products.
Medical marijuana patients who are at least 18 and recreational consumers who are at least 21 may receive one bag at no cost and without making a purchase while supplies last.
Distribution will begin on a rolling basis. Bags are expected to become available in early September at most participating retailers in Penobscot, Piscataquis, Kennebec and Somerset counties, with availability expanding to the rest of the state by early November.
The effort expands the Office of Cannabis Policy’s Safe Storage for ME pilot program, which distributed 5,000 bags through 222 medical and recreational marijuana retailers in early 2024. The program encourages consumers to keep marijuana locked, out of sight and beyond the reach of children and pets.
“The first iteration of OCP’s Safe Storage for ME program was very well received,” Office of Cannabis Policy Director John Hudak said, citing positive responses from patients, consumers and businesses.
Hudak said the expanded distribution will help meet continued demand while keeping marijuana products away from young people and pets.
Approximately 2,500 people responded to a survey conducted during the pilot program. Among respondents, 62% were parents and 83% had pets in their homes. About 40% said they had never previously heard of safe marijuana storage, including many who lived with minors.
