Marijuana Becomes Legal in Maine on January 30th, Most Progressive Cannabis Law in U.S.
In just a few weeks, on January 30th, cannabis becomes legal for those 21 and older in Maine.
This is thanks to portions of Question 1 taking effect. With a possession limit of 2.5 ounces, it’s the most progressive of the eight states that have legalized cannabis. The seven other states have a limit of one ounce, though Oregon and Massachusetts allow more at a private residence.
The new law also brings Maine a more liberal marijuana cultivation limit than other states. Of the six states that allow cannabis cultivation, all but one allow six plants to be grown; that one state is Oregon, where four is allowed. Maine’s Question 1, however, allows six mature plants, 12 immature plants and an unlimited amount of seeds/seedlings.
Currently there is no legal means for cannabis or cannabis seeds to be obtained; however, Question 1 does legalize a system of regulated cannabis retail outlets and cultivation centers. Those are expected to be open sometime early next year.
The full text of the new law can be found by clicking here.
[Update: This article was updated to reflect that the new law takes effect January 30th, not January 15th; we apologize for the mistake and any confusion it may have caused].