Ten years ago, Massachusetts voters legalized the sale of recreational cannabis. On Nov. 3, they’ll get another chance at the ballot box to either re-declare their support, or reverse course and upend the state’s sprawling weed industry.
Question 8 will ask voters whether to repeal the laws that made Massachusetts the sixth state in the country to legalize recreational marijuana sales. A “yes” vote is one in favor of repeal. A “no” vote would keep the status quo.
A “yes” vote would prohibit the legalization, regulation, and taxation of the retail sale of adult recreational use marijuana, and change the penalties for possession of marijuana. A “no” vote would make no change to the law relative to marijuana.
If passed, this year’s ballot question would collapse the $8 billion industry, while leaving intact rules that allow for the sales of medical marijuana and the limited possession of pot for recreational use. It would make Massachusetts the first state to repeal recreational cannabis.
Possession of up to one ounce, and five grams of concentrated products, would remain legal for people over 21, as would home cultivation. Current law allows residents of age to carry up to two ounces and grow six plants for personal use.
Recreational dispensaries would be able to apply on an expedited basis for medical licenses.
Over the decade since the 2016 ballot measure ushered in the legal adult-use marijuana market, Massachusetts has become home to some 400 dispensaries and another 200 businesses dedicated to growing, transporting and supporting cannabis sales.
Retailers have brought in an estimated $330 million in local and state tax revenue.
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