The 2020 election results are in, and cannabis won across the nation. Ballot measures were successfully passed to legalize adult-use or medical cannabis in all five states that placed the issue before voters. Additionally, over two dozen local governments in California passed measures to allow commercial cannabis businesses and sales -- check out the latest!
NATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Cannabis Regulators From 19 States Create An Independent Group To Coordinate Legalization Efforts
Cannabis regulators from 19 states formed an independent organization called the Cannabis Regulators Association (CANNRA) to coordinate efforts to implement cannabis law reform. The regulators will draw from their collective experiences managing regulated cannabis programs to help inform regulatory best practices. The group does not plan to advocate for or against cannabis reform - it's goal is to provide "unbiased information to help make informed decisions". (Marijuana Moment)
STATEWIDE CHATTER
Arizona
Arizona voters successfully passed the Smart and Safe Arizona Act, legalizing adult-use of marijuana in the state. The initiative passed with 59.85% voting in favor of legalization, with 40.15% opposed. The new law will bring recreational marijuana business opportunities to Arizona, with the first licensing application process set to begin on January 19, 2021. Additionally, a number of licenses will be reserved for social equity applicants to apply for at a later date. (AZ Marijuana)
California
Cannabis won in local elections across California, with 31 commercial cannabis ballot measures approved by voters on the city and county levels. The changes open the door to new local markets for cannabis businesses throughout the state. Many of the measures simply asked voters to approve a cannabis-related tax, which is typically the first step for local governments to authorize a new industry. Next, a regulatory ordinance will be put in place, followed by a business licensing process. The cities that have opted to allow commercial cannabis businesses include Costa Mesa, Encinitas, and Benicia. (Marijuana Business Daily)
Michigan
Councilman James Tate is proposing an ordinance that would allow for adult-use sales in Detroit. Tate’s ordinance would give first priority for the limited licenses to Detroiters, who would also receive a discount on application fees and the opportunity to buy city land for their businesses. Additionally, beginning on March 1, 2021, the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency will accept applications for adult-use cannabis licenses from any applicant, meaning applicants won’t need to already possess a medical license to apply. (Detroit Free Press)
Mississippi
Mississippi voters successfully legalized a medical marijuana program for the state by passing a pair of ballot measures. The first measure asked voters if they wanted to legalize medical marijuana, and the second provided a business-friendly industry framework that establishes there will be no limit on the number of business licenses issued. The state must create rules to govern the medical program by July 1, 2021 and must begin issuing patient cards and business licenses by August 15, 2021. (Marijuana Moment)
Montana
Montana voters successfully passed a pair of marijuana legalization measures, legalizing adult-use of marijuana in the state. Initiative 190 passed with 56.61% voting in favor of marijuana legalization, while Constitutional Initiative 118 passed with 57.68% voting in favor to set the legal age for marijuana use at 21. The Montana Department of Revenue will make applications for adult-use marijuana business licenses available by October 1, 2021. (Marijuana Moment)
New Jersey
As expected, New Jersey voters successfully passed a resolution to legalize adult-use of cannabis in the state. The question passed with 67% of voters in favor of legalization, a turnout that was almost exactly predicted by polls leading up to election day. The initiative establishes that the state must begin issuing licenses for businesses by June 30, 2021. Lawmakers have been working on a bill that will establish regulations for the new market. (New York Times)
New York
Cannabis legalization legislation will be introduced through the state budget again in January, according to the top cannabis advisor to New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo. The plan will include provisions for social equity and economic development, aspiring to be a “model” for other states to follow. The goal would be to enact the reform by April. This will be the third year the governor has included cannabis legalization in his state budget proposal. (Marijuana Moment)
South Dakota
South Dakota made history as the first state to pass both medical and adult-use legalization during an election. Initiated Measure 26 to legalize medical marijuana passed with 69% in favor, and Constitutional Amendment A to legalize marijuana passed with 52% in favor. The new laws will bring plenty of marijuana business opportunities to the state, with application fees for medical marijuana business licenses not to exceed $5,000. The state must establish rules to govern the medical program by October 29, 2021 and must establish rules to govern the adult-use of marijuana by April 1, 2022. (Leafly)
GET TO KNOW UNITY RD. FROM SOMERSET, NJ.
Unity Rd. in Somerset, NJ, is your premier destination for top-quality cannabis products and exceptional customer service. Located conveniently in the heart of Somerset, Unity Rd. offers a wide selection of premium cannabis strains, edibles, concentrates, and accessories to meet all your needs. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are dedicated to providing a personalized shopping experience, ensuring you find the perfect products to suit your preferences. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or new to cannabis, Unity Rd. is here to guide you on your journey. Visit us today at Unity Rd. Somerset and discover why we're the go-to dispensary in the area.
For more information, check out our website at www.Unity-Rd.com.
Comments