Maine’s Cannabis Landscape in 2024

Maine has made significant progress since voters approved adult-use cannabis in 2016. The state continues to refine its regulations, ensuring consumer safety and market growth.

Adult-Use Cannabis

• Possession & Cultivation: Adults 21+ can possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis, including 5 grams of concentrate. Home growers may cultivate three mature plants. Some municipalities may restrict home cultivation.
• Retail Sales: The market has grown rapidly, with over 170 licensed stores now operating, compared to just 37 in 2021.
• Regulations: The Office of Marijuana Policy (OMP) continues to improve regulations, focusing on product safety and consumer protection.
• Tax Revenue: Maine has collected over $500 million in taxes from cannabis sales, benefiting education and infrastructure programs.

Medical Cannabis

• Qualifying Conditions: No specific list required—doctors can certify patients at their discretion.
• Patient Access: Patients can cultivate their own cannabis, purchase from dispensaries, or use designated caregivers.

Ongoing Cannabis Reforms

While Maine has a legal market, advocates continue to push for justice and equity. Key 2024 legislative efforts include:

• Employment Protections (LD1311): Restoring job security for cannabis users.
• On-Site Consumption (LD1952): Advocates are working to reinstate on-site consumption, which was removed from the original law.
• Expungements (LD1789): Proposals aim to clear past cannabis convictions.

The Road to Legalization

Maine’s cannabis reform movement began in 2009, leading to the 2016 Yes on 1 Campaign, which narrowly passed with 50.26% of the vote. After a legal battle over signatures, the initiative officially appeared on the ballot as Question 1 and was certified after a recount.

Maine’s Cannabis Policy Timeline

• 1976 – Decriminalization of small cannabis possession.
• 1999 – Medical cannabis legalized for severe conditions.
• 2009 – Expansion of Maine’s medical cannabis program.
• 2016 – Adult-use cannabis legalized.
• 2020 – Retail sales begin on October 9, 2020.

Stay Connected

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