Bill > S2749

This bill establishes a comprehensive restructuring of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission and makes several significant changes to cannabis-related laws. The bill creates a new Cannabis Control Commission consisting of three commissioners (two appointed by the governor and one by the attorney general), with specific requirements for their qualifications, terms, and conduct. The commissioners will have strict ethical guidelines, including prohibitions on holding other political offices and participating in investigations that may become adjudicatory proceedings. The bill introduces an executive director with independent authority over enforcement and operational units, and establishes detailed protocols for the commission's operations. Key changes include increasing the legal possession limit from 1 to 2 ounces of marijuana, modifying definitions related to marijuana establishments, and allowing limited marijuana product delivery across municipalities. The bill also mandates several important studies, including research on mental health outcomes of cannabis use, market supply and demand, and the impact of excise tax rates on the cannabis industry. Additionally, the bill updates terminology throughout existing cannabis-related laws, replacing "medical marijuana treatment center" with "medical marijuana establishment" and making various technical amendments to existing statutes. The legislation aims to refine and improve the regulatory framework for marijuana use and sales in Massachusetts, with a focus on social equity, public health, and industry sustainability.

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2749