This week’s updates include developments in: CA, MA, ME, NJ, NY, & PA.
Tag: Social Equity
Republican Gov. Charlie Baker has signed legislation into law that seeks to promote greater diversity among those participating in the state’s licensed cannabis industry and that lays the groundwork for the establishment of on-site cannabis consumption facilities.
Retail Licensing Delays and Emerging Social Equity Concerns in New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut
As more states transition from marijuana criminalization to a regulated retail marketplace, struggles over the structure of retail sales markets have become a foremost concern. Inabilities in establishing and enacting clear and timely regulations regarding the application and acceptance process for business licenses have caused significant delays in the actualization of retail markets in many states.
The second lottery is reserved for equity applicants who have or whose family members have, a past marijuana conviction, or who have lived in a “disproportionately impacted area” for at least 10 years.
“These changes will help to establish a fair and diverse marketplace that reflects Vermont’s values and priorities.”
The bill seeks to increase diversity in the marijuana industry by awarding new dispensary licenses.
While the Governor’s office already possesses the authority to issue pardons in certain circumstances, this measure expands those powers so that the Governor can do so unilaterally for persons with minor marijuana convictions.