On November 8, 2016, marijuana was officially legalized for recreational use in the state of Massachusetts. We New Englanders are extremely happy to hear the news but the question remains… how does this affect us?
For starters, what are we legally allowed to have?
Under the new law, people 21 years and older are able to possess one ounce of marijuana outside of their homes. However, inside their homes they can carry up to ten ounces and grow up to six plants.
When does this go in effect?
December 15, 2016.
I guess I can handle that. When can I buy?
It seems as though local dealers won’t be impacted for quite some time. The initiative in Massachusetts allows for marijuana retail stores to open as of January 1, 2018. That is, if everything goes according to plan. Massachusetts was not quick to implement dispensaries when the initiative passed for legalized medical marijuana, so there is little confidence surrounding this date.
However, medical dispensaries are looking to get a piece of the new business. Once they get the appropriate licensing they will also be able to supply recreationally, hopefully before 2018.
…What’s the catch?
Nothing is guaranteed in life except for death and taxes. Marijuana products and retail sales are subject to their respective state’s sales tax as well as a 3.75% excise tax. Cities and towns also have the option of adding an additional tax of 2%, which brings us to a total of around 12%.
What about in my town?
Restrictions are different from town to town. The aspects that towns can restrict include the place and operation of marijuana retail stores, the number of these stores, and their hours of operation.
Now that pot is legal, I can drive high. Right?
Wrong. The law does not change existing laws about operating vehicles when under the influence. People should assume that marijuana use will be treated the same as alcohol use. If you can’t do it with alcohol, you can’t do it with pot.
Well can I at least go to work high?
You wouldn’t go to work drunk, so no. But this doesn’t mean you can’t use while employed by a certain company, it simply depends on their regulations. Organizations retain the right to ban marijuana consumption in the workplace as well as use by their employees. Does this mean they always will? Of course not! Every company is different.
Is there anyone who can’t regulate my marijuana usage?
Yes actually, your landlord! Unless smoking is banned in your building, you are free to use.
Is this happening anywhere else in New England right now?
Alright Bryant students, get ready for this one:
“Just hours after Massachusetts voters legalized recreational marijuana Tuesday, an advocate for a similar measure here was meeting with aides to Governor Raimondo at the State House to talk about the potential for legalization in Rhode Island,” according to the Providence Journal.
Above all, the future is bright for marijuana users and those in the marijuana industry. It is only a matter of time until the rest of country sees the benefits of marijuana legalization and falls in line with the states that have taken this progressive step forward. To more naps and munchies!