Bill > H149

This bill modifies Massachusetts cannabis licensing regulations by introducing new definitions and limiting the number of marijuana retail licenses a single entity can control. Specifically, the bill defines "Person or Entity Having Direct Control" as those with significant ownership (10% or more), voting rights, or decision-making authority in a marijuana establishment, and "Person or Entity Having Indirect Control" as those with influence over parent companies or decision-making processes. The bill restricts a single entity from controlling more than 6 marijuana retailers (with a phased approach: 4 retailers in the first year and 5 in the second year), and also limits control of other cannabis-related licenses (3 medical marijuana treatment center licenses, 3 product manufacturer licenses, and 3 cultivator licenses). Additionally, the law requires that when an entity seeks to control more than 3 marijuana retailers, they must purchase existing licenses, with priority given to licenses owned by social equity businesses, economic empowerment businesses, and certified Minority, Women, and Veteran-owned Business Enterprises. These provisions aim to promote diversity and prevent market consolidation in the cannabis industry.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H149