SUMMARY

This bill makes the following changes to the Maine Medical Use of Marijuana Act.

1. It adds definitions of "batch" and "batch number." It also adds to the definition of "inherently hazardous substance" alcohol and ethanol and amends the definition of "cultivation area" to require such an area to be obscured from public viewing by a person under 21 years of age. It changes the definitions of "seedling" and "immature marijuana plant." It changes the definition of "registered caregiver" to specify that it means a natural person who is a caregiver.
2. It aligns the labeling requirements of the Maine Medical Use of Marijuana Act with the labeling requirements of the Marijuana Legalization Act and provides more specific guidance regarding required labeling.
3. It requires local authorization for caregiver retail stores, registered dispensaries, marijuana testing facilities and manufacturing facilities operating in towns, plantations and townships in the unorganized and deorganized areas, in addition to local authorization by municipalities already required by law.
4. It authorizes the Department of Administrative and Financial Services to impose upon registered caregivers, caregiver retail stores, dispensaries, manufacturing facilities and persons authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances fines for violations of the Maine Medical Use of Marijuana Act and rules adopted pursuant to the Act. It also establishes maximum allowable fines for minor and major registration violations, including major registration violations affecting public safety.
5. It requires all registered caregivers and assistants of registered caregivers and officers, directors and assistants of registered dispensaries, registered manufacturing facilities, persons authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances and marijuana testing facilities to submit to an annual state and federal criminal history record check in order for the department to issue or renew a registry identification card.
6. It authorizes the department to assess a fee for caregivers registering with the department based upon plant canopy and amends the statutory fee schedule to clarify that caregivers may register based upon plant count or plant canopy. It requires a caregiver to obtain a registration certificate to operate a caregiver retail store and provides that the annual registration fee for a caregiver retail store may not be less than $50 or more than $500. It requires a caregiver to notify the department of the physical address of a caregiver retail store. It allows a caregiver to organize the caregiver's business activities as any type of legal business entity recognized under the laws of the State.

An Act To Amend Provisions of the Maine Medical Use of Marijuana Act

Be it enacted by the People of the State of Maine as follows:

PART A

Sec. A-1. 22 MRSA §2422, sub-§1-G  is enacted to read:

1-G.  Batch.   "Batch" means:

1. A.  A specific quantity of harvested marijuana for medical use harvested during a specified period of time from a specified cultivation area maintained by a registered caregiver when applicable or dispensary; or
2. B.  A specific quantity of harvested marijuana, marijuana products or marijuana concentrate for medical use produced during a specified period of time in a specified manufacturing area maintained by a registered caregiver when applicable, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances.

Sec. A-2. 22 MRSA §2422, sub-§1-H  is enacted to read:

1-H.  Batch number.   "Batch number" means a distinct group of numbers, letters or symbols, or any combination thereof, assigned to a specific batch of harvested marijuana, marijuana products or marijuana concentrate for medical use by a registered caregiver, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances.

Sec. A-3. 22 MRSA §2422, sub-§3,  as amended by PL 2017, c. 452, §3, is further amended to read:

3. Cultivation area. "Cultivation area" means an indoor or outdoor area used for cultivation in accordance with this chapter that is enclosed in such a manner that it obscures the area from public viewing by any person who has not attained 21 years of age and is equipped with locks or other security devices that permit access only by a person authorized to have access to the area under this chapter.

Sec. A-4. 22 MRSA §2422, sub-§4-N,  as enacted by PL 2019, c. 331, §2 and c. 528, §16, is repealed and the following enacted in its place:

4-N.  Immature marijuana plant.   "Immature marijuana plant" means a marijuana plant that is not a mature marijuana plant or seedling. "Immature marijuana plant" does not include hemp as defined in Title 7, section 2231, subsection 1-A, paragraph D.

Sec. A-5. 22 MRSA §2422, sub-§4-O,  as enacted by PL 2019, c. 331, §2 and c. 528, §16, is amended to read:

4-O. Inherently hazardous substance.   "Inherently hazardous substance" means a liquid chemical; a compressed gas; carbon dioxide; or a commercial product that has a flash point at or lower than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, including, but not limited to, butane, propane and diethyl ether. "Inherently hazardous substance" does not include includes any form of alcohol or ethanol.

Sec. A-6. 22 MRSA §2422, sub-§11,  as amended by PL 2017, c. 452, §3, is further amended to read:

11. Registered caregiver. "Registered caregiver" means a natural person who is a caregiver who is registered by the department pursuant to section 2425-A.

Sec. A-7. 22 MRSA §2422, sub-§14-B,  as enacted by PL 2017, c. 452, §3, is amended to read:

14-B. Seedling.   "Seedling" means a nonflowering marijuana plant or rooted cutting that measures 24 inches or less from the base of the main plant stalk to the most distant point of the plant's leaf stems or branches. that is:

1. A.  Not flowering;
2. B.  Less than 12 inches in height; and
3. C.  Less than 12 inches in width.

PART B

Sec. B-1. 22 MRSA §2429-A, sub-§3,  as enacted by PL 2017, c. 452, §18, is amended to read:

3. Labels. If a A registered caregiver, caregiver retail store, dispensary or manufacturing facility affixes shall affix a label on the packaging of any harvested marijuana , marijuana product or marijuana concentrate provided to a qualifying patient and . If that label includes information about contaminants, the cannabinoid profile or potency of the harvested marijuana, the label must be marijuana product or marijuana concentrate, such information must be verified by a marijuana testing facility. This subsection does not apply if there is no marijuana testing facility operating in accordance with section 2423-A, subsection 10 or Title 28-B, chapter 1 that is authorized to test marijuana for medical use. Harvested marijuana, marijuana products and marijuana concentrate to be provided to a patient in accordance with this chapter must be labeled with the following information, as applicable, based on the harvested marijuana, marijuana product or marijuana concentrate to be sold:
4. A.  The registry identification card number, if applicable, and registration certificate numbers of the registered caregiver, caregiver retail store, dispensary and manufacturing facility where the harvested marijuana, marijuana product or marijuana concentrate was cultivated, manufactured and offered for sale;
5. B.  An identity statement and universal symbol;
6. C.  Health and safety warning labels as required by rules adopted by the department after consultation with the Department of Health and Human Services, Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention;
7. D.  The batch number;
8. E.  A net weight statement;
9. F.  Information on the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol per serving of the harvested marijuana, marijuana product or marijuana concentrate and, in addition, for edible marijuana products, the number of servings per package;
10. G.  Information on gases, solvents and chemicals used in marijuana extraction;
11. H.  Instructions on usage;
12. I.  For marijuana products:

(1) The amount of marijuana concentrate per serving of the product, as measured in grams, and the amount of marijuana concentrate per package of the product, as measured in grams;

(2) A list of ingredients and possible allergens; and

(3) A recommended use date or expiration date;

1. J.  For edible marijuana products, a nutritional fact panel; and
2. K.  Any other information required by rule by the department.

Sec. B-2. 22 MRSA §2429-A, sub-§5  is enacted to read:

5. 5. Health and safety rules. The department shall adopt labeling, packaging and other necessary health and safety rules for harvested marijuana, marijuana products and marijuana concentrate for medical use. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.

PART C

Sec. C-1. 22 MRSA §2422, sub-§5-D  is enacted to read:

5-D.  Municipality.   "Municipality" means a city, town or plantation in this State that is not located within the unorganized and deorganized areas.

Sec. C-2. 22 MRSA §2422, sub-§14-C  is enacted to read:

14-C.  Unorganized and deorganized areas.   "Unorganized and deorganized areas" has the same meaning as in Title 12, section 682, subsection 1.

Sec. C-3. 22 MRSA §2429-D,  as amended by PL 2019, c. 217, §5, is further amended to read:

• § 2429-D. Local regulation in municipalities

Pursuant to the home rule authority granted under the Constitution of Maine, Article VIII, Part Second and Title 30-A, section 3001, a municipality may regulate registered caregivers, caregiver retail stores operating pursuant to section 2423-A, subsection 2, paragraph P, registered dispensaries, marijuana testing facilities and manufacturing facilities.

A municipality may not:

1. Registered caregivers. Prohibit or limit the number of registered caregivers;
2. Stores, dispensaries, testing and manufacturing facilities. Prohibit caregiver retail stores, registered dispensaries, marijuana testing facilities and manufacturing facilities that are operating with municipal approval in the municipality prior to the effective date of this section September 19, 2019. For purposes of this subsection, "municipal approval" means an examination and approval of the store, dispensary or facility for the use of the premises consistent with conduct authorized under this chapter, including, but not limited to, a conditional use approval or site plan approval. "Municipal approval" does not include issuance of a building, electrical or other similar permit or authorization that does not address the use of the structure or facility for which the permit or authorization is issued; or
3. Municipal authorization needed. Authorize caregiver retail stores, registered dispensaries, marijuana testing facilities and manufacturing facilities that are not operating on the effective date of this section or before September 19, 2019 to operate in the municipality unless the municipal legislative body, as defined in Title 30-A, section 2001, subsection 9, has voted to adopt or amend an ordinance or approve a warrant article allowing caregiver retail stores, registered dispensaries, marijuana testing facilities or manufacturing facilities, as applicable, to operate within the municipality.

Sec. C-4. 22 MRSA §2429-E  is enacted to read:

• § 2429-E. Local regulation in towns, plantations and townships in unorganized and deorganized areas

In unorganized and deorganized areas, pursuant to the home rule authority granted under the Constitution of Maine, Article VIII, Part Second and Title 30-A, section 3001 and the principles of sound planning, zoning and development recognized in Title 12, chapter 206-A, the legislative body of a town or plantation or, in the case of a township, the county commissioners of the county where the township is located and the Maine Land Use Planning Commission may regulate registered caregivers, caregiver retail stores operating pursuant to section 2423-A, subsection 2, paragraph P, registered dispensaries, marijuana testing facilities and manufacturing facilities.

1. 1. Registered caregivers. The legislative body of a town or plantation or, in the case of a township, the county commissioners of the county where the township is located may not prohibit or limit the number of registered caregivers in a town, plantation or township.
2. 2. Local authorization required. A person may not operate a caregiver retail store, registered dispensary, marijuana testing facility or manufacturing facility that is not operating on or before January 1, 2021 within a town, plantation or township located within the unorganized and deorganized areas unless:
3. A.  The legislative body of the town or plantation or, in the case of a township, the county commissioners of the county where the township is located has voted to adopt or amend an ordinance or approve a warrant article allowing caregiver retail stores, registered dispensaries, marijuana testing facilities or manufacturing facilities, as applicable, to operate within the town, plantation or township;
4. B.  The caregiver retail store, registered dispensary, marijuana testing facility or manufacturing facility has obtained all applicable local approvals, permits and licenses not relating to land use planning and development that are required for the operation of the caregiver retail store, registered dispensary, marijuana testing facility or manufacturing facility, as applicable, by the town or plantation or, in the case of a township, the county commissioners of the county where the township is located; and
5. C.  The caregiver retail store, registered dispensary, marijuana testing facility or manufacturing facility has obtained all applicable approvals, permits and licenses relating to land use planning and development that are required by the Maine Land Use Planning Commission for the development and operation of the caregiver retail store, registered dispensary, marijuana testing facility or manufacturing facility.

Sec. C-5. 22 MRSA §2429-F  is enacted to read:

• § 2429-F. Authority of Maine Land Use Planning Commission

Nothing in this chapter or the rules adopted pursuant to this chapter may be construed to limit the authority of the Maine Land Use Planning Commission to regulate land use planning and development activities within the unorganized and deorganized areas of the State pursuant to Title 12, chapter 206-A.

PART D

Sec. D-1. 22 MRSA §2430-H,  as enacted by PL 2017, c. 452, §24, is amended to read:

• § 2430-H. Fines collectedauthorized; Maine Administrative Procedure Act applies

In addition to any other administrative action to suspend or revoke a registry identification card or registration certificate, the department, on its own initiative or on complaint and after investigation, notice and the opportunity for a public hearing, by written order may impose a fine on a registered caregiver, caregiver retail store, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances operating under this chapter for any violation by the registered caregiver, caregiver retail store, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances or an assistant or other authorized agent of a registered caregiver, caregiver retail store, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances of the provisions of this chapter, the rules adopted pursuant to this chapter or any other terms, conditions or provisions imposed pursuant to the issuance of a registry identification card or registration certificate. Fines collected pursuant to this chapter and rules adopted by the department must be credited to the Medical Use of Marijuana Fund pursuant to section 2430.

1. 1. Fines in addition to other penalties. Any fines imposed by the department pursuant to this section are in addition to any criminal or civil penalties that may be imposed pursuant to other applicable laws or rules.
2. 2.   A fine imposed by the department for a violation of this chapter may not exceed $100,000 per violation for a caregiver retail store, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances. A fine imposed by the department for a violation of this chapter may not exceed $10,000 per violation for a registered caregiver or an assistant or other authorized agent of a registered caregiver, caregiver retail store, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances.
3. A.  The department shall adopt rules setting forth potential amounts of fines to be imposed for violations of this chapter based upon the following specific categories of unauthorized conduct by a caregiver retail store, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances:

(1) Not more than $25,000 per minor registration violation;

(2) Except as provided in subparagraph (3), not more than $50,000 per major registration violation; and

(3) Not more than $100,000 per major registration violation affecting public safety.

1. B.  The department shall adopt rules setting forth potential amounts of fines to be imposed for violations of this chapter based upon the following specific categories of unauthorized conduct by a registered caregiver or an assistant or other authorized agent of a registered caregiver, caregiver retail store, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances:

(1) Not more than $1,000 per minor registration violation;

(2) Except as provided in subparagraph (3), not more than $5,000 per major registration violation; and

(3) Not more than $10,000 per major registration violation affecting public safety.

3. 3. Form of payment. All fines imposed pursuant to this section must be paid by the registered caregiver, caregiver retail store, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances to the department in the form of cash or in the form of a certified check or cashier's check payable to the department.
4. 4. Maine Administrative Procedure Act applies. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter or in rules adopted pursuant to this chapter, the imposition of a fine or the suspension or revocation of a registry identification card or registration certificate by the department, including, but not limited to, the provision of notice and the conduct of hearings, is governed by the Maine Administrative Procedure Act. A final order of the department imposing a fine or suspending or revoking a registry identification card or registration certificate is a final agency action, as defined in Title 5, section 8002, subsection 4, and the registered caregiver, caregiver retail store, dispensary, manufacturing facility or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances may appeal that final order to the Superior Court in accordance with Rule 80C of the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure.
5. 5.   The department shall adopt rules governing the imposition of fines under this section. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.

PART E

Sec. E-1. 22 MRSA §2423-A, sub-§10, ¶A-1  is enacted to read:

A-1.  The department shall issue a registry identification card to an officer or director or assistant of a registered marijuana testing facility within 5 business days of approving an application or renewal under this subsection.

(1) A registry identification card expires one year after the date of issuance. A registry identification card issued under this paragraph must contain:

(a) The name of the cardholder;

(b) The date of issuance and expiration date of the registry identification card; and

(c) A random identification number that is unique to the cardholder.

(2) The department may not issue a registry identification card to an officer or director or assistant of a registered marijuana testing facility who has been convicted of a disqualifying drug offense. The department shall conduct a criminal history record check of each officer or director or assistant subject to this paragraph on an annual basis. The criminal history record check required under this subparagraph must include criminal history record information obtained from the Maine Criminal Justice Information System established in Title 16, section 631 and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The following provisions apply.

(a) The criminal history record information obtained from the Maine Criminal Justice Information System must include a record of public criminal history record information as defined in Title 16, section 703, subsection 8.

(b) The criminal history record information obtained from the Federal Bureau of Investigation must include other state and national criminal history record information.

(c) A person subject to a criminal history record check under this subparagraph shall submit to having fingerprints taken. The State Police, upon payment of the fee, shall take or cause to be taken the person's fingerprints and shall forward the fingerprints to the State Bureau of Identification so that the bureau can conduct state and national criminal history record checks. Except for the portion of the payment, if any, that constitutes the processing fee charged by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, all money received by the State Police for purposes of this division must be paid to the Treasurer of State. The money must be applied to the expenses of administration incurred by the Department of Public Safety.

(d) A person subject to a Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history record check under this subparagraph may obtain a copy of the criminal history record check by following the procedures outlined in 28 Code of Federal Regulations, Sections 16.32 and 16.33. A person subject to a state criminal history record check under this subparagraph may inspect and review the criminal history record information pursuant to Title 16, section 709.

(e) State and federal criminal history record information may be used by the department for the purpose of screening a person in accordance with this chapter.

(f) Information obtained pursuant to this subparagraph is confidential. The results of criminal history record checks received by the department are for official use only and may not be disseminated to any other person or entity.

(g) If a person is no longer subject to this chapter that person may request in writing that the State Bureau of Identification remove the person's fingerprints from the bureau's fingerprint file. In response to a written request, the bureau shall remove the person's fingerprints from the fingerprint file and provide written confirmation of that removal.

(3) If the department determines not to issue a registry identification card to an officer or director or assistant of a marijuana testing facility, the department shall notify the marijuana testing facility in writing of the reason for denying the registry identification card.

The department, with the Department of Public Safety, Bureau of State Police, State Bureau of Identification, shall adopt rules to implement this paragraph. Rules adopted pursuant to this paragraph are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.

Sec. E-2. 22 MRSA §2423-F, sub-§8, ¶B,  as repealed and replaced by PL 2019, c. 331, §17, is repealed and the following enacted in its place:

1. B.  In accordance with rules adopted under subsection 10, the department shall issue a registry identification card to the officer or director or assistant of a registered manufacturing facility or a person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances within 5 business days of approving an application or renewal under this subsection.

(1) A registry identification card expires one year after the date of issuance. A registry identification card issued under this paragraph must contain:

(a) The name of the cardholder;

(b) The date of issuance and expiration date of the registry identification card; and

(c) A random identification number that is unique to the cardholder.

(2) The department may not issue a registry identification card to an officer or director or assistant of a registered manufacturing facility or a person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances who has been convicted of a disqualifying drug offense. The department shall conduct a criminal history record check of each person, officer or director or assistant subject to this paragraph on an annual basis. The criminal history record check requested under this subparagraph must include criminal history record information obtained from the Maine Criminal Justice Information System established in Title 16, section 631 and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The following provisions apply.

(a) The criminal history record information obtained from the Maine Criminal Justice Information System must include a record of public criminal history record information as defined in Title 16, section 703, subsection 8.

(b) The criminal history record information obtained from the Federal Bureau of Investigation must include other state and national criminal history record information.

(c) A person subject to a criminal history record check under this subparagraph shall submit to having fingerprints taken. The State Police, upon payment of the fee, shall take or cause to be taken the person's fingerprints and shall forward the fingerprints to the State Bureau of Identification so that the bureau can conduct state and national criminal history record checks. Except for the portion of the payment, if any, that constitutes the processing fee charged by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, all money received by the State Police for purposes of this division must be paid to the Treasurer of State. The money must be applied to the expenses of administration incurred by the Department of Public Safety.

(d) A person subject to a Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history record check under this subparagraph may obtain a copy of the criminal history record check by following the procedures outlined in 28 Code of Federal Regulations, Sections 16.32 and 16.33. A person subject to a state criminal history record check under this subparagraph may inspect and review the criminal history record information pursuant to Title 16, section 709.

(e) State and federal criminal history record information may be used by the department for the purpose of screening a person in accordance with this chapter.

(f) Information obtained pursuant to this subparagraph is confidential. The results of criminal history record checks received by the department are for official use only and may not be disseminated to any other person or entity.

(g) If a person is no longer subject to this chapter that person may request in writing that the State Bureau of Identification remove the person's fingerprints from the bureau's fingerprint file. In response to a written request, the bureau shall remove the person's fingerprints from the fingerprint file and provide written confirmation of that removal.

(3) If the department determines not to issue a registry identification card to an officer or director or assistant of a registered manufacturing facility or a person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances, the department shall notify the registered manufacturing facility or person in writing of the reason for denying the registry identification card.

The department, with the Department of Public Safety, Bureau of State Police, State Bureau of Identification, shall adopt rules to implement this paragraph. Rules adopted pursuant to this paragraph are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.

Sec. E-3. 22 MRSA §2425-A, sub-§3-A,  as amended by PL 2019, c. 331, §19, is further amended to read:

3-A. Criminal history record check for registered caregivers, registered dispensaries and caregivers administering medical marijuana on school grounds.  The department shall request a criminal history record check for a caregiver required to register with the department under subsection 2 and an assistant of a caregiver and an officer or director or assistant of a dispensary as well as a caregiver designated under section 2423-A, subsection 1, paragraph F-1, subparagraph (4), except for a caregiver who is a parent, a legal guardian or a person having legal custody of the qualifying patient. The department may not issue a registry identification card to an applicant who is not permitted to have a disqualifying drug offense or who would be denied an approval, credential, certification, authorization or renewal under Title 20-A, section 6103 or 13011 based on that criminal history record check.

The criminal history record check requested under this subsection must include criminal history record information obtained from the Maine Criminal Justice Information System established in Title 16, section 631 and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The following provisions apply.

8. The criminal history record information obtained from the Maine Criminal Justice Information System must include a record of public criminal history record information as defined in Title 16, section 703, subsection 8.
9. The criminal history record information obtained from the Federal Bureau of Investigation must include other state and national criminal history record information.
10. A person subject to a criminal history record check under this section shall submit to having fingerprints taken. The State Police, upon payment of the fee, shall take or cause to be taken the person's fingerprints and shall forward the fingerprints to the State Bureau of Identification so that the bureau can conduct state and national criminal history record checks. Except for the portion of the payment, if any, that constitutes the processing fee charged by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, all money received by the State Police for purposes of this paragraph must be paid over to the Treasurer of State. The money must be applied to the expenses of administration incurred by the Department of Public Safety.
11. The subject of a Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal history record check may obtain a copy of the criminal history record check by following the procedures outlined in 28 Code of Federal Regulations, Sections 16.32 and 16.33. The subject of a state criminal history record check may inspect and review the criminal history record information pursuant to Title 16, section 709.
12. State and federal criminal history record information may be used by the department for the purpose of screening a person in accordance with this chapter.
13. Information obtained pursuant to this subsection is confidential. The results of criminal history record checks received by the department are for official use only and may not be disseminated to any other person.
14. If a person is no longer subject to this chapter that person may request in writing that the State Bureau of Identification remove the person's fingerprints from the bureau's fingerprint file. In response to a written request, the bureau shall remove the person's fingerprints from the fingerprint file and provide written confirmation of that removal.

The department, with the Department of Public Safety, Bureau of State Police, State Bureau of Identification, shall adopt rules to implement this subsection. Rules adopted pursuant to this subsection are routine technical rules as defined in Title 5, chapter 375, subchapter 2-A.

PART F

Sec. F-1. 22 MRSA §2423-A, sub-§2, ¶P,  as amended by PL 2019, c. 217, §2, is further amended to read:

1. OperateObtain a registration certificate from the department pursuant to section 2425-A, subsection 6 to operate one caregiver retail store to sell harvested marijuana to qualifying patients for the patients' medical use in accordance with this chapter; and

Sec. F-2. 22 MRSA §2423-A, sub-§2, ¶Q,  as enacted by PL 2017, c. 452, §4, is amended to read:

1. Be organizedOrganize the caregiver's business activities as any type of legal business entity recognized under the laws of the State.

Sec. F-3. 22 MRSA §2425-A, sub-§2,  as enacted by PL 2017, c. 452, §12, is amended to read:

2. Required registration. A caregiver, other than a caregiver operating under section 2423-A, subsection 3, paragraph C, and an officer or director or assistant of a dispensary or a caregiver, other than a caregiver operating under section 2423-A, subsection 3, paragraph C, shall obtain a registry identification card in accordance with subsections 3, 4 and 5. A long-term care facility designated by a qualifying patient pursuant to section 2423-A, subsection 1, paragraph F-1, subparagraph (2) , a caregiver retail store and a dispensary shall obtain a registration certificate in accordance with subsections 6, 7 and 8.

Sec. F-4. 22 MRSA §2425-A, sub-§5, ¶B,  as enacted by PL 2017, c. 452, §12, is amended to read:

1. If a caregiver iscaregiver's business activities are organized as a legal business entity pursuant to section 2423-A, subsection 2, paragraph Q, the caregiver may obtain a registry identification card in the name of the business entity if the caregiver submits evidence of the business entity's registration with the Secretary of State and evidence that the business entity is in good standing with the Secretary of State.

Sec. F-5. 22 MRSA §2425-A, sub-§6,  as enacted by PL 2017, c. 452, §12, is amended to read:

6. Application for registration certificate; qualifications. The department shall register and issue a registration certificate to an applicant who submits a complete application that meets the requirements of this subsection. An application must include, as applicable:
7. The annual fee required pursuant to subsection 10;
8. Evidence of the applicant's registration with the Secretary of State and evidence that the applicant is in good standing with the Secretary of State; and
9. The name, address and date of birth of each officer or director of the applicant .;
10. D.  If the applicant is a registered caregiver applying for a registration certificate for a caregiver retail store, the physical address of the caregiver retail store; and
11. E.  Evidence of compliance with all local regulations in accordance with section 2429-D or 2429-E, as applicable.

Sec. F-6. 22 MRSA §2425-A, sub-§8,  as amended by PL 2019, c. 331, §20, is further amended to read:

8. Requirements for issuance of registration certificates. A registration certificate expires one year after the date of issuance. The certificate must contain , as applicable:
9. The name of the certificate holder;
10. The date of issuance and expiration date of the registration certificate;
11. A random identification number that is unique to the certificate holder;
12. The physical address of the certificate holder and, if the certificate holder is a dispensary, the physical address of one additional location, if any, where marijuana plants will be cultivated; and
13. A clear designation showing whether the certificate holder is allowed under this chapter to cultivate marijuana plants.

Sec. F-7. 22 MRSA §2425-A, sub-§10, ¶B,  as enacted by PL 2017, c. 452, §12, is repealed and the following enacted in its place:

1. B.  There is an annual registration fee for a caregiver who cultivates marijuana plants on behalf of a qualifying patient pursuant to section 2423-A, subsection 2, paragraph B.

(1) For a caregiver cultivating based upon plant count, the fee may not be less than $50 or more than $240 for each group of up to 6 mature marijuana plants cultivated by the caregiver. The caregiver shall notify the department of the number of marijuana plants the caregiver cultivates.

(2) For a caregiver cultivating based upon plant canopy, the fee may not be less than $50 or more than $1,500 for a total plant canopy of 500 square feet or less.

Sec. F-8. 22 MRSA §2425-A, sub-§10, ¶B-1  is enacted to read:

B-1.  There is an annual registration fee for a caregiver retail store, which may not be less than $50 or more than $500. The caregiver shall notify the department of the physical address of the caregiver retail store.

Sec. F-9. 22 MRSA §2425-A, sub-§10, ¶J,  as enacted by PL 2017, c. 452, §12, is amended to read:

60. There is an annual fee for a criminal history record check for a caregiver or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substancesor an officer or director or assistant of a registered dispensary, marijuana testing facility or manufacturing facility, which may not be less than $31 or more than $60. The fee must be paid by the caregiver or person authorized to engage in marijuana extraction using inherently hazardous substances or by the registered dispensary, marijuana testing facility or manufacturing facility for an officer or director or assistant of the registered dispensary, marijuana testing facility or manufacturing facility.

Sec. F-10. 22 MRSA §2425-A, sub-§11, ¶E  is enacted to read:

1. E.  A caregiver retail store shall notify the department in writing if the physical location of the caregiver retail store changes.

https://www.maine.gov/legis/lawlib/lldl/medicalmarijuana/index.html

Maine Medical Use of Marijuana Program

Department of Administrative and Financial Services (resources)
https://www.maine.gov/dafs/bbm/mmmp/home  info, forms etc for medical marijuana use
https://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/statutes/22/title22ch558-C.pdf  Maine Medical Use of Marijuana Act Chapter 558-c

LD 238
https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=SP0084&item=3&snum=128

LD 1539
https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=HP1060&item=21&snum=128
Attached in this message is Proposed Manufacturing Rule has been put out by OMP but is not law, yet.
The MJ Facility Testing Program Rule is still under development.

Proposed Medical Marijuana Manufacturing Facilities rule

https://www.maine.gov/dafs/services/marijuana/rulemaking/proposed-rules

OMP Office of Marijuana Policy

https://www.maine.gov/dafs/services/marijuana primarily for adult use information

Adult Use Law
http://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/28-B/title28-B.pdf

Provisionally adopted rules for Maine’s Adult use Marijuana Program

https://www.maine.gov/dafs/services/marijuana/rulemaking/provisionally-adopted-rules

This link has the approved list of out of state visiting patients in Maine…..
https://www.maine.gov/dafs/bbm/mmmp/sites/maine.gov.dafs.bbm.mmmp/files/inline-files/Out%20of%20State%20visiting%20patients.pdf

LD538... COMMITTEE AMENDMENT “ ” to H.P. 395, L.D. 538, Bill, “An Act To 10 Ensure Access to Medical Cannabis for Visiting Qualifying Patients” linkhttps://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?PID=1456&snum=129&paper=&paperld=l&ld=538

Pursuant to PL 2019, c.209 [LD 538], An Act to Ensure Access to Medical Cannabis for Visiting Qualifying Patients, as of June 6, 2019, medical marijuana patients visiting Maine from other jurisdictions are no longer required to obtain certification from a Maine-based medical provider or to designate a registered caregiver or dispensary in order to obtain medical marijuana. Now, medical marijuana patients visiting Maine need only produce their state-issued registry identification card, certificate, or other state-issued documentation of the visiting patient’s status as a medical marijuana patient in their state of residence, in order to purchase medical marijuana while visiting Maine. The Maine Office of Marijuana Policy has reached out to states that authorize their residents to utilize marijuana for medicinal purposes to determine whether each state authorizes their resident patients to utilize their state-issued authorization to procure medical marijuana in other jurisdictions such as Maine. A visiting patient may only use their state-issued patient credential if their home state authorizes such use. From the list below patients visiting Maine can determine whether their state-issued patient credentials will allow them to purchase marijuana while visiting Maine. This list is subject to revision. Please note that the marijuana and marijuana products available to patients in Maine may differ substantially from those products available and authorized for use in the visiting patient’s state of residence. These differences include the form, concentration, and CBD minimum and THC maximum content allowable in marijuana and marijuana products under Maine’s Medical Use of Marijuana Program: it is the sole responsibility of the visiting patient to confer with their prescriber, caregiver, or dispensary staff to determine the appropriate marijuana or marijuana product and appropriate dosage to address the visiting patient’s needs, and to comply with any limitations imposed by their state of residence on the form, type, quantity, or delivery method for medical marijuana they are authorized to purchase or possess. A qualifying visiting patient may purchase up to 2.5 ounces of a combination of medical marijuana and marijuana products every 15 days while visiting the state. The following states have provided the Office of Marijuana Policy with sufficient information to allow qualified medical marijuana patients visiting Maine to use their state-issued medical marijuana patient credential to obtain medical marijuana while visiting Maine: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Washington, DC. Patients who are residents of these states may purchase from a registered dispensary or caregiver medical marijuana and/or marijuana products while visiting Maine, subject to the limitations imposed by the laws and rules of the State of Maine the laws and rules of their state of residence. This list is subject to change. Nothing contained in this summary shall be construed as legal advice nor may any visiting patient purchase marijuana for medical use if prohibited by their state of residence. Maine registered caregivers and dispensaries may refuse to provide medical marijuana to any visiting patient whose credentials are suspect or otherwise insufficient to determine whether the visitor is a qualified patient in their jurisdiction of residence.

The MMMP Laws

Attention:  

The CDC has officially posted on the mmmp website notification that the new rules that were originally going to take effect on February 1st, then May 1st have officially gone into effect on May 10, 2018.  The following is a bullet point list of the changes and how they affect our program.  Please review and understand that following these rules is required to maintain compliance. 

MMMP RULE Changes Overview

The Department may/must-

* Take action necessary to ensure compliance.

* Request specific documents as proof of authorized conduct

o Patients must have photo ID and written cert

o Registered caregiver must have photo ID, registry ID card and designation card and designation form- up to maximum 5 cards and active patients; and trip tickets if transporting

o A primary caregiver employee or principal officer, board member or employee of a registered dispensary must have registry ID card

o Non-registered caregiver must have designation card and designation form- up to maximum 5

* Initiate an onsite assessment, which may include an interview, a paper review, and an inspection of premises hosting authorized conduct, to ensure compliance of an individual who engages in authorized conduct authorized prior to issuing a registry identification card, as a routine review, in response to an allegation of non-compliance or as part of a plan of correction.

* Conduct an inspection where the focus can be on

o Verifying information submitted in an application;

o Reviewing records for all required documents, including, but not limited to designation forms, registration, and licenses, labeling and employee records, as applicable;

o Conducting interviews; inspecting areas used for authorized conduct to ensure any marijuana, including plants, usable marijuana and incidental marijuana cultivated for medical use, is within the specified limit and is identifiable and maintained as required;

o Taking samples of marijuana cultivated for medical use and products containing marijuana for medical use; and

o Assessing conduct for compliance with the rule and statute.

* Take remedial action for non-compliance which may include directed corrective action; suspension, revocation and denial of a registry identification card or registration certificate, as specified; civil penalties; and referral the conduct is outside the scope of MMMP, is not appropriate for agency directed corrective action, or has not been rectified through correction action.

* Request entry to inspect a dispensary or registered caregiver without notification.

o Upon refusal, may refer to law enforcement when compliance cannot be determined

o If denied entry by a cardholder, take action to revoke the registry identification card or dispensary registration certificate.

* Consider failing to comply with assessment process/inspection a violation of the rule

* Refer to other if the conduct is outside the scope of MMMP, is not appropriate for agency directed corrective action, or has not been rectified through correction action.

* Suspend a dispensary certificate on an emergency basis

* Report medical provider to licensing boards, regarding the inappropriate evaluation or treatment of a patient's medical condition or a reported alleged violation of the applicable standard of care, or when determined non-compliant

* Take samples, photographs or electronic copies may be taken during an on-site assessment to determine compliance.

* Provide technical assistance during an inspection or move to a progressive enforcement action (fines or penalties, required plan of correction, registration denial or revocation, and referral to law enforcement) if compliance cannot be determined when conducting an on-site assessment, or when a finding of non-compliance is not resolved through technical assistance provided on-site or through other remedial action.

* Request a plan of correction which must include action steps to correct any finding, violation or deficiency noted by the Department in the notice of non-compliance; specific deadlines for each corrective action step; and steps to reduce potential future violation.

* Issue a directed plan of correction

* Determine a registry identification card applicant ineligible if the applicant has failed to demonstrate compliance with this rule and the statute; and the applicant is/will be using a location for authorized conduct where such conduct is prohibited by the host municipality's local codes and ordinances.

The Department may/must-

* Take action necessary to ensure compliance.

* Document reports of non-compliance that result in an on-site assessment

* Provide at least 24 hours as notification if entering to inspect areas within the residence of a person not required to register.

* Show proof of identity when requesting entry and prior to inspecting, provide the written reason for the on-site assessment and take measures to reduce potential disruption and contamination to area during and inspection

* Maintain chain-of-custody and provide receipt for samples collected

* Issue notice of non-compliance that is to include appeal rights

* Issue written notice of denial or revocation of card which must include reason for action and section of rule or statute, date action takes effect and the right to appeal.

* Person received notice when the person signs for receipt or 3 days after Dept mailed 1st class to last known address

* Seek a district court order terminating a dispensary registration certificate or seek emergency suspension.

* Enforce date of revocation as being 3 days after written notice is mailed first class

* Provide the subject of an on-site assessment report within 30 days and indicate whether any violation was identified and, if corrective action was taken, and the action and its outcome. (No action required; finding of non-compliance; immediate action against dispensary certificate)

MMJ Cardholders/Participants may/must-

* Possess amounts of marijuana up to the limits specified in the statue (as a patient and on behalf of a patient possess up to 2 ½ ounces of prepared marijuana, 6 mature plants, 12 non-flowering, unlimited seedlings and 8 lbs of unprocessed/incidental)

* As a patient, designate one source to cultivate on their behalf, and also cultivate within limit

* Share a cultivation location if the caregivers are family or household members and there is only two caregivers (22 MRS §2423-A (1)(B) and (3)(D).)

* Share a cultivation location if the patients are family or household members, and patient can share with more than two other patients

* Assist any patient who designates them- up to 5 current/valid designations for caregivers, and discontinue a designation by signing and dating designation form and returning designation card.

* Re-apply for a registry identification card after 30 days of revocation or denial if they can demonstrate compliance

* Prepare goods containing marijuana for a patient who is a member of the primary caregiver's family or household and furnish that product to only that patient, without a food establishment license

* As a caregiver, rent separate, self-contained, locked and secured locations within a building and store cultivation-related materials in common area if they, as a caregiver, are not assisting another caregiver and marijuana is locked and secure.

* As a dispensary, report failed drug tests and may have a policy to specify that the reporting of the presence of marijuana for an employee who possesses a valid written certification is not required and the employee's status as a qualifying patient is confidential.

* As a registered caregiver, employ one person to assist in caregiver-assigned duties, if personnel files is maintained and provide limited marijuana to dispensary approved for such transfer

* As a incapacitated adult or minor patient or patient who resides in nursing/hospice facility, designate a second primary caregiver

* As a dispensary, cultivate up to 30 plants outdoors

* Report total amount of marijuana on packaged goods

* Be inspected if they are a registry identification card applicant

MMJ Cardholders/Participants may/must

* Comply, to receive protection as an authorized person and to avoid progressive enforcement action.

* Forfeit excess to law enforcement

* Identify each plant and patient file with patient's written certification number

* Report, at least annually, the total number of patients, with designation dates and patient's certification unique identifier

* As a caregiver, report if a designation is not re-filled within 10 days unless the caregiver has 5 cards; and, as a dispensary, report patient count monthly.

* As a dispensary, request approval to acquire prepared marijuana from a registered caregiver

* Maintain records for tax purposes (sales records) and personnel files

* Report cultivation location

* Obtain food establishment license if preparing and furnishing goods containing marijuana to patient who are not family or household members.

* Pay specified testing fees for required testing of samples collected by the Departmen 

Passed the Senate then got held (political games). They passed an amendment that kept them from dying on the table when they adjourned. They will pass on to the next special session which may be In the next couple of weeks. Then it needs to go back to the house and Senate then to the governor. Still have a ways to go. They adjourned around 1:30 this morning (4/19).

If this Bill is vetoed, we will still need to reach out to our Reps...

Please reach out to your representatives and ask for yes votes on both LD 1539 and LD 238.

NOTIFY YOUR REP/SENATOR NOW AND SPEAK YOUR CONCERNS. HERE IS THE LINK TO FIND YOUR REP/SENATOR:

http://legislature.maine.gov/house/townlist.htm

Current Bills in process:

 LD 1539  Click HERE to read more

LD 238 Click HERE to read more

Marijuana Legalization Implementation Committee

LD 1719 – work session

Accepted in Ought to Pass as Amended Vote on February 23, 2018

*Indicates changes made to proposal when vote was taken

1. Proposal to prohibit entry of persons under 21 from all areas within a marijuana establishment;

*Add clarification that qualifying patient aged 18, 19 or 20 may enter a common area within a shared facility to access where medical marijuana is sold.

2. Proposal to clarify municipal “opt-in” language to provide that municipal action may include passage of a new ordinance, amendment of existing ordinance or approval of a warrant article that generally regulates operation of marijuana establishments within municipality;

*Existing ordinances are valid and decisions such as land-use ordinances applicable to adult-use marijuana endorsed by legislative body qualify as an “opt-in.”

3. Proposal to include language similar to 28-B MRSA §606 (LD 1719, p. 49) regarding coordination of medical and adult use rules on packaging and labeling;

4. Proposal to provide exemptions from application of certain Criminal Code (Title 17-A) provisions for activities authorized under MLA (consistent with existing exemptions for activities authorized under medical law).

1. Proposal to include unallocated language directing Marijuana Advisory Commission to include in its first report recommendations regarding standardization, coordination or integration of medical and adult use programs, including testing, labeling and packaging standards and rules.

*Change to make this an ongoing duty of the Commission rather than one-time report.

1. Proposal to apply certain packaging and labeling standards relating to appeal to children (shapes, depictions, etc.) to advertising standards. See pink sheet of language, page 3, amending 28-B, section 702, sub-§1, ¶B.

1. Change definition of “plant canopy” to include only those areas in which mature marijuana plants are cultivated. (See gold sheet language dated Jan. 30)

1. Revise license tier sizes to: Tier 1, up to 30 plants or up to 500 sq ft; Tier 2, up to 2000 sq ft; Tier 3, up to 7000 sq ft; and Tier 4, up to 20,000 sq ft, with increases available upon renewal of 7000 sq ft no more than once per 2 years. No change in application fee or license fee.

1. Health and safety warning labels on packaging of retail marijuana and marijuana products. Mandate health and safety warnings labels on retail marijuana and marijuana products as required by major substantive rule adopted by DAFS in consultation with DHHS Center for Disease Control and Prevention.  Sec. 701(1), pg 50.

1. Remove section 202(3), pg 15, on durational residency requirement. Add a definition of resident to sec. 102: person domiciled in the state; with permanent place of abode in state; spends more than 183 days of taxable year in state; and has filed resident tax return in each of the 3 years prior to the year in which the applicant applies for licensure. Repeal on June 1, 2012 the tax return filing portion of the definition.

1. Sampling of marijuana. Sec. 502(5), p 35. Sampling on premises by employees of products manufacturing facility allowed for quality purposes and research and development only, may be done on premises, but may not involve smoking. Smoking defined as in 22 MRSA 1541(6).

1. Retain current bill provisions on co-location of adult use cultivation and products manufacturing facilities and medical marijuana cultivation and processing space (pgs. 32-33, 35). Require complete separation of marijuana stores and storefronts for medical marijuana caregivers and dispensaries (separate facilities; separate buildings).

1. Proposal relating to local control/approval within unorganized territory – see proposal distributed 2/16.

1. Proposal relating to employment practices (§112 of bill, pgs. 12-13) – see language from 2/16.

1. Proposal relating to organic labeling – see language distributed 2/16.

1. Reduce number of marijuana plants authorized for personal possession and home cultivation to 3 mature plants, 12 immature plants and unlimited seedlings.

* Provide for 6 month delayed effect of reduction from 6 to 3 mature plants.

• All provisions regarding personal possession and home cultivation will still only apply to adult use marijuana (i.e., not applicable to medical marijuana).
• Person may cultivate 3 mature plants, 12 immature plants and unlimited seedlings:
  • On land on which the person is domiciled;
  • On other land the person owns; or
  • On other land owned by another person with a written agreement regarding the cultivation/care of the plants.
• Municipality may adopt an ordinance or other regulation that sets limits on home cultivation of marijuana on a parcel/tract of land as long as that limit allows for the cultivation of 3 mature plants, 12 immature plants and unlimited seedlings for each person 21 years or older who is domiciled on the parcel/tract of land.
• Provisions regarding home cultivation requirements (§1502(3) on pgs. 61-62) still apply as written.

1. All licensing, administration, enforcement and other oversight under MLA under DAFS.

• All rulemaking authority under MLA under DAFS, but DAFS required to consult with DACF in adopting rules under the MLA relating to cultivation, processing, testing, etc. (in same manner as the required consultation with DOL and DPS on pg. 10 of bill).

1. Amend Marijuana Advisory Commission membership to following 15 members:

• Representatives from DAFS, DHHS, DPS, DOL and *DACF;
• *A representative of a statewide prosecutors association;
• A public health expert;
• Representatives from medical marijuana and adult use marijuana industries;
• Two members of the general public; and
• Two members of the Senate and two members of the House.

1. Shift oversight of medical law and administration of medical marijuana program from DHHS to DAFS.

• Medical law will remain in Title 22 and will not change other than references to DHHS; medical program rules and active registrations will remain in effect and valid.
• Will include provisions aimed at ensuring HHS Committee retains jurisdiction over medical marijuana issues.
• Will include provisions to ensure that administration and oversight of medical program within DAFS does not involve administration and oversight by BABLO.
• Will include provisions to ensure that rulemaking under medical law by DAFS requires consultation with DHHS.

1. Remove all municipal revenue sharing provisions from bill.

• Do not include new language on municipal impact fees.
• On revenue sharing, delete section 1002, subsection 2 and amend subsection 1; delete section 1003 subsection 2 and amend subsection 1.
• Retain specific tax revenue dedications to Adult Use Marijuana Public Health and Safety Fund in bill (p. 58-59). All other tax revenue goes directly to General Fund.
  
  

1. Include provisions to allow for limited plant sales between dispensaries/registered caregivers and adult use cultivators who are also dispensaries or registered caregivers.

• Sale of plants and seeds only (no harvested/processed marijuana, marijuana concentrate or marijuana products).
• Sale is a taxable event on which applicable excise tax under MLA must be collected.
• For a two year period starting on the date that DAFS issues the first “active” cultivation facility license (DAFS to post notice of this start date), the initial active license provided to an adult use cultivator that is also a dispensary or registered caregiver must provide authorization for the cultivator to purchase plants and seeds from a dispensary or registered caregiver in a single sales transaction only.
  • The authorization is limited to the term of the initial active license (one year) and the adult use cultivator is limited to a one-time purchase of plants and seeds from a dispensary or registered caregiver (i.e., cannot purchase from multiple dispensaries or caregivers and cannot purchase in multiple transactions from a single dispensary or caregiver).
  • A dispensary or registered caregiver may only sell plants and seeds to one adult use cultivator in a single transaction (i.e., cannot sell to multiple cultivators or in multiple transactions to a single cultivator).
  • DAFS to adopt rules governing this limited sales period.    

1. Remove all reference to social club operation, licensing and related provisions from bill.

1. Strike second paragraph from 110 (pg. 12, lines 20-22).

1. Strike second and third sentences from §104(3) (pg. 9, lines 19-26).

1. Strike §402(6) in its entirety (pg. 30, lines 19-34).

1. Add to the duties of the Marijuana Advisory Commission in §903 (pg. 56-57) language requiring the annual solicitation of public comment regarding police contacts with citizens involving the personal use of marijuana and marijuana products and home cultivation of marijuana and to include any resulting findings and recommendations in its annual report.

27. Tax structure and rates (sales tax and excise tax) Sec. 1001, pg. 57 and Part D, pg. 66.

• Accepted proposal from DAFS/MRS to achieve 20% effective total tax rate that includes a 10% sales tax at the point of sale to a consumer and an excise tax imposed on wholesale sales by a licensed cultivator to another adult use marijuana licensee.

The outcome is essentially a 21.5 percent excise tax at wholesale on marijuana products. When combined with the 10 percent sales tax, this proposal is revenue neutral to the 20 percent sales tax previously proposed. Preliminary revenue estimates are as follows:

28. Delete sections A-8 and A-9 that would have imposed a deadline of December 1, 2018 on provisional adoption of major substantive rules.

Withdrawn or voted “out”

1. Reexamine testing provisions to improve efficiency of testing process. Withdrawn by Rep. Ackley.

1. State tax deductions for marijuana businesses. Withdrawn by Sen. Dion.

1. Employment of persons age 18, 19 or 20 at an adult use marijuana facility/establishment. Withdrawn by Rep. Hickman.

1. Proposal to limit possession of marijuana cultivated for personal use under MLA to 8 pounds (mirror medical marijuana law limitation).   Withdrawn by Rep. Hickman.

1. Environmental issues, particularly waste and burden or impacts on natural resources. Withdrawn by Rep. Hickman.

1. Proposal to expand requirements on labeling, packaging and signs, advertising and marketing. Withdrawn by Rep Hanley.

Jim Mitchell	Josh Tardy	Chris Jackson	Jake Mitchell	Alysia Melnick

Mitchell Tardy Jackson

To protect and promote your organization's interest in Augusta, you want experienced professionals with extensive networks of relationships among policymakers, their staff and their political confidantes. You demand not simply the names of key people, but knowledge of the nuances and historical connections that can significantly influence political decision-making. Furthermore, your public affairs efforts require a clear understanding of the legislative process and how to use its protections and devices appropriately and effectively.

Alysia Melnick, Bernstein Shur Law Firm

We welcome back Alysia, She helped create and draft LD 1296, which is the current law we are operating under now. When it comes to shaping laws and policies, lobbying, and building strong coalitions, Alysia has the experience, knowledge and passion that have proved successful against incredible odds. Having worked both inside and alongside government, she has the relationships, skills and "never say die" attitude that makes the difference in a tough fight.

Written Testimony may be emailed to : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Key points on LD 1719 Hillary Lister's Summary

Pros
+ LD 1719 doesn't change Maine's medical marijuana laws - this is a good thing.
+ Removes 800,000 square foot canopy cap on statewide cultivation.
+Removes prohibition on cannabis magazines being available to people under 21 .
+ Removes financial escrow and bonding requirements for license applicants.
+ Ensures licensing is available for small scale and outdoor cultivation.
+ Allows licensing of nurseries.

Cons
+ Removes protections against discrimination in cases of schooling, housing, employment or custody
decisions for recreational use of cannabis (though leaves protections for medical marijuana caregivers and
patients untouched.
+ Language around employer restrictions on use of cannabis are unclear in terms of impact patients provided
protections under Maine's Medical Marijuana laws.
+Allows very large scale ( 30,000 to 40,000 + square feet) cultivation facilities creating risk of
overproduction if state decides to track and cap recreational and potentially medical cannabis cultivation.
+Fees for licenses are lower than under Medical laws, and unlikely to cover costs of implementation. 

Keep Medical Intact and Separate from Recreational

Amendments to LD 1719 are being proposed that would make major changes to medical marijuana laws
through this bill to implement recreational adult use laws.
Any amendments made by the Marijuana Legalization Implementation committee should focus on setting up
the adult use market in a way that protects Maine small businesses and public safety.
+ Keep Maine's Medical Marijuana program separate from BAB LO regulation of the recreational market.
+Don't jeopardize patient access in order to create a new commercial market for adult use.
+ Look to Maine's successful medical marijuana program for guidance in developing laws governing cannabis
under the Marijuana Legalization Act.
+ Don't replace Maine's laws that are working with Washington state's model of taxing and tracking all
cannabis that puts profits of a few big businesses ahead of patient access and safety. 

Written testimony  may be emailed to :

 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  Committee clerk for Health and Human Services

 Hillary Lister's summary

Click HERE to read or download the document

The committee that's drafting regulations for Maine's legal recreational market endorses the bill 13-2, but some lawmakers are concerned about Gov. LePage's opposition to legalization.
Live link http://www.centralmaine.com/2017/09/28/pot-taxes-scrutinized-by-lawmakers/