The only stores opening now were previously operating as medical marijuana dispensaries and are able to convert their facilities. Jeff Smith, legal and regulatory reporter for the Denver-based MJBizDaily, which tracks the cannabis industry, said Thursday that while Connecticut has been thorough in its planning, Rhode Island will start its retail sales industry by letting existing growers and dispensaries go right into recreation production and sales. Starting in 2026, they expect we'll see $125 million per year in cannabis tax revenue. Get all the facts on the new law. Connecticut's first round of retail cannabis sales for adults 21 and older began Tuesday at seven existing medical marijuana establishments across the state, less than two years after Gov. However, a public hearing has been called for January 12, 2023, to discuss modifications to the moratorium. Each municipality has the ability to set its own rules for when it comes to public consumption. She also produces Long Story Short, a podcast exploring public policy issues across Connecticut. And, especially early on, expect longer lines and perhaps traffic in the area. So, were thrilled," Nelson said. Stores are expected in 2023. A full year into Connecticuts legalization of adult-use cannabis, the state has yet to reap a single tax dollar from sales of recreational marijuana. CT proposal causes confusion, concern, RISE, formerly known as Bluepoint Wellness of Connecticut, Branford, Zen Leaf, formerly known as Willow Brook Wellness, Meriden. Dispensary facilities that have been approved by the Department and that have converted to hybrid retailers may open to the general public and commence adult use cannabis sales at a date to be published on the Department's website. Cannabis use is also prohibited in state parks and beaches, as well as on or in state waters. Updated: Nov 11, 2022 / 07:34 AM EST. There are 18 dispensaries in Connecticut and while nine of them are converting to offer retail cannabis, they are not scrapping the medical program. Privacy Policy. For those considering starting a business, the licensing and review process is currently underway. Visit the DCP websiteto learn more about the petition process. An Act Concerning Responsible And Equitable Regulation Of Adult-Use Cannabis, The policies and procedures related to the home grow provisions of the medical marijuana program are also, What cannabis means for hemp farmers and hemp production, licensing and review process is currently underway, Buying or selling products with delta-8-THC or delta-10-THC in Connecticut. Learn about addiction prevention, and risks of cannabis. Sales have started in Connecticut and possession of 1.5 oz of cannabis is now legal. Weve carefully crafted a securely regulated market that prioritizes public health, public safety, social justice and equity.. As a Lawmakers approved the Connecticut recreational cannabis market in June 2021. Connecticut's first retail recreational cannabis sales are scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 10. "Andover has not banned cannabis sales or farming. Home Grow Possession Key Dates. "People are . Ian, who asked to be identified only by first name, said the decision was especially important to the Black community. Read time: 6 minutes. Delivery service companies are also being established in the state, but not yet open. At the same time, the Social Equity Council will be reviewing applications submitted by social equity applicants and work force development plans submitted by medical marijuana producers and dispensaries applying to convert to the recreational program. Medical marijuana paraphernalia and other products are displayed inside the Fine Fettle dispensary in Newington, Connecticut, on Oct. 17, 2022. Coventry officials are continuing to debate regulations regarding cannabis establishments. I think its been fairly smooth and efficient in Connecticut so far, but theres no firm date yet for retail, Smith said in a phone interview. If you do want to logout, please click "Logout". Fine Fettle dispensary products on display In Newington, Connecticut, Oct. 17, 2022. A moratorium expired June 15, 2022. Walk-ins welcome on a first . Mid-2022: The first recreational dispensaries are expected to open in Connecticut. The recreational cannabis market in Connecticut is anticipated to open in the spring of 2022, according to MJBizDaily. Learn more about adult-use cannabis in Connecticut here. CT med selection is bare bones, and you're super limited to like four or five suppliers. I think that we should have broadened the criteria for expungement by far.. I think that the members of the town council will support such a proposal. Guilford's moratorium has been extended until April 2023. Trulieve can become a hybrid dispensary and also . The town does not currently have a moratorium or a ban, the town's land use coordinator said. Legal Cannabis Dispensaries . Copyright 2023 NBCUniversal Media, LLC. New information regarding the moratorium is not immediately available. Consumption is banned everywhere smoking cigarettes is banned, in addition to health care facilities including psychiatric hospitals, and areas in or around an establishment with a liquor license (such as outdoor seating at bars and restaurants). Regulations around retail cannabis establishments were last decided by the town on July 19, 2022. A public hearing is scheduled in March to solicit feedback on a proposal to impose a six-month moratorium. Connecticut, on the other hand, has emphasized the social equity aspects of the new industry. This retailer stands with the Black Community Learn more or contribute now. For those considering starting a business, the licensing and review process is currently underway. Those charged with simple possession of 4 ounces or less before Jan. 1, 2000, or from Oct. 1, 2015 through June 30, 2021 will be eligible to petition the Superior Court to have their criminal . Customers at Fine Fettle said the now-legal sales, paired with the expungement of records, signify a new era for the state. Retail stores are banned from selling recreational cannabis. Dispensaries for medical cannabis have been open since of 2014. Watch Live at 7:00 PM: The U.S. and the Holocaust, a film by Ken Burns | Screening & Panel Discussion . Affinity in New Haven, Bluepoint Wellness in Branford, Still River Wellness in Torrington, Fine Fettle stores in Newington, Stamford and WIllimantic, The Botanist stores in Danbury and Montville, [] Smith said that the $3 million needed to become a cultivator is an incredibly high amount, necessitating a well-funded financial, likely corporate, backer. An award-winning freelance reporter/host for WSHU, Brian lives in southeastern Connecticut and covers stories for WSHU across the Eastern side of the state. by Erica E. Phillips December 9,. The state is now considering applications for retail outlets and have made a focused effort to invite people from minority communities called social equity candidates to apply for a recreational cannabis retail license. Patients must become qualified by a Connecticut-licensed physician who recommends medical cannabis to treat one or more state-approved qualifying conditions. I think that even most proponents of allowing sale of marijuana here think it shouldnt be allowed in public spaces," Mayor Joe Kilduff said to the Bristol Press. The town set a moratorium, which expires on June 8, 2023. Connecticut Recreational Marijuana Dispensary Customers. He previously worked at the Hartford Courant as the sports editor and the deputy managing editor. Study Shows Theres a Limit, Train police officers in the latest techniques of detecting and preventing impaired driving, Expunging criminal records of people convicted of certain cannabis crimes, Directing new funding to prevention and recovery services that help prevent cannabis use by minors. Edibles vary by size, but they cannot exceed 5 milligrams of THC, according to state regulation. Granby's moratorium is set to expire Aug. 31, 2023. Date: December 10, 2021 As of July 1, 2021, adult-use ("recreational") cannabis is legal in Connecticut. Long lines formed early in the morning outside of dispensaries: Today marks a turning point in the injustices caused by the war on drugs, most notably now that there is a legal alternative to the dangerous, unregulated, underground market for cannabis sales, Lamont said in a statement. One edible serving cannot have more than 5 milligrams of THC. A CT bill would expand it. Bluepoint Wellness of Connecticut, Branford, Fine Fettle Dispensary Newington, Newington, Fine Fettle Dispensary Stamford, Stamford, Fine Fettle Dispensary Willimantic, Willimantic. Examples of what 1/4 of an ounce of cannabis flower or its equivalent might look like include: Patients in the Medical Marijuana Program are advised to purchase any necessary medication prior to Jan. 10, or at one of the nine medical-only dispensaries in the state, as long lines and traffic are expected around the hybrid retailers during the opening weeks of adult-use sales. Cannabis Jobs & Marijuana Career Services, New Study Looks Into Cannabis Treatment for Parkinsons Disease, Neil Youngs Honesty About Cannabis Use Could Keep Him From Becoming An American Citizen, Marijuana on the Ballot: These States May Legalize Recreational Marijuana, Thailand Legal Medical Marijuana A First For Southeast Asia, Cannabis Workouts: More People Choosing to Exercise While High, Cannabis Not a Gateway Drug, New Study Finds, Another Study Finds Connection Between Legal Cannabis and Reduced Opioid Use, How High Can You Get? At home it can be used, although landlords have the right to prohibit smoking and vaping. If you do want to logout, please click "Logout". Municipal facilities were also not included. Tom Sparkman, First Selectman of Lisbon, said he hasnt yet heard any interest in a dispensary or a growing site yet, according to the Norwich Bulletin. As many as 40 more retailers, along with dozens of other marijuana-related businesses, could open . Businesses must first receive a license through DCP before applying to receive a special permit to operate in East Hartford. Connecticut legalized adult-use cannabis last year, but it's still unclear when. Baked goods are often popular. New information regarding the moratorium is not immediately available. Ray Pantalena, a dispensary manager, said medical marijuana customers wont pay sales tax. Connecticut's first retail recreational cannabis sales will begin as soon as Jan. 10 Stores accept cash and debit cards. New information regarding the moratorium is not immediately available. New York, New Jersey and Connecticut with a . Beverages are allowed, but can only come in single servings. Nine dispensaries in Connecticut opened their doors Tuesday to make the first sales of recreational marijuana to adults aged 21 or older. "Redding has not banned or instituted a moratorium on cannabis businesses," First Selectman Julia Pemberton said on Jan. 27. The vote came the day before recreational cannabis sales began in the state. . State regulators currently anticipate retail sales of adult-use marijuana will begin by the end of 2022. In that regard, Connecticut is staying ahead of an issue that has arisen in other states. Sign up for news alerts to be informed when the next lottery application period is announced. In February of 2021 Gov. New York is still developing its adult-sales regulations, while Rhode Islands new law was signed in May, with sales scheduled to begin as soon as December 1. The department said that all existing medical marijuana producers have met the requirements for an expanded license that allows them to supply both the adult-use cannabis and medical marijuana markets. Connecticut legalized recreational cannabis in 2021, but you won't be able to find dispensaries in the state yet, and probably won't until early next year when recreational cannabis sales are officially launched. New information regarding the moratorium is not immediately available. Approved hybrid retail cannabis establishments as of July 12, 2022. A 6.35% sales tax, a 3% sales tax dedicated to the city or town where the sale occurs, and a tax based on THC content, which ranges from 10% to 15% of the sale price. Cannabis sales to adults in Connecticut can begin next week, according to the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. Insa CT currently has a business address of 35 Center St., Chicopee, Mass., but this will be the Massachusetts company's first endeavor in Connecticut. Ten to 15 percent of the tax is based on the THC content of the product. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. No, patients under the age of 18 are allowed to qualify through one of the approved medical conditions listed above. Other stores are expected to open later this year, although it's unclear where and which stories will be among the first to come on line. SB1201 was signed by Gov. Patients are allowed to have one caregiver at any time. Sales are limited to 1/4 ounce of cannabis flower, or the equivalent, for each transaction. Connecticut The first recreational, adult-use cannabis sales in Connecticut will begin at nine hybrid retailers in January, according to the Department of Consumer . And while the state Department of Economic and Community Development has a seat on the Social Equity Council, the agency is making investments in large corporate cannabis operations, Ward said. Ned Lamont signed legislation making Connecticut the latest state to legalize retail sales. Insa currently operates three recreational . The town is taking a "wait and see" approach to cannabis retail. Cannabis establishmets are permitted by Special Exception Application. The department said it has notified licensed hybrid retailers that they will be allowed to begin selling cannabis products to all adults 21 and over beginning no earlier than 10 a.m., or as local zoning permits, on Tuesday, Jan. 10. . Its a far cry from what many were led to believe, Ward said, stressing that the results of Connecticuts cannabis market remain to be seen later this year.. But on the positive side, Connecticut is no longer spending money to prosecute people for cannabis, Ward said in a phone interview from Hawaii, where he is working on lobbying that states legislature. The city is closer to retail recreational cannabis sales with the Board of Alders overwhelming approval of zoning text amendments governing where cannabis and cannabis products can be sold, as well as where they can be consumed. By the end of the 2020s, direct and indirect revenue generated from cannabis sales and associated revenues could push over a billion dollars while creating hundreds of jobs in the industry and hundreds of millions in new tax revenue annually, once the rollout evolves into a mature market. The 9 cannabis dispensaries ready for retail sales in Connecticut, according to the state Weed is legal and nine dispensaries have completed the licensing process, the state said. The council forwarded the names to the states consumer protection officials for a background check. for an in-depth breakdown on accepted qualifying conditions. I look at it as the beginning of the end of the war on drugs, Michel said. As of October 2022, recreational marijuana use is legal in 19 states, Washington, D.C., and Guam, and medical use is legal is 38 states, but, on a federal level, it remains illegal and is. Out here in CO there are dozens of flower providers, and edibles, and concentrates. . Two to four vape cartridges, which come in .5 mL and 1 mL sizes. These are the Medical Marijuana Dispensaries that have been notified that they successfully completed the necessary steps for conversion to a hybrid license and may begin selling cannabis products to all adults 21 and over, beginning no earlier than 10 a.m. on Jan. 10, 2023: Copyright 2023 NBCUniversal Media, LLC. state legalized recreational marijuana and opened the door to pot sales in Connecticut by the end of 2022. . Patients who can make purchases ahead of time, or have their medicine delivered, are advised to do so. Planning and development unanimously approved a moratorium on adult-use cannabis sales on Nov. 24, 2021. Where does the industry stand? Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate. A standard-sized brownie or cookie can be the equivalent of .08 grams of cannabis flower. While we hope there will be no disruption or inconvenience to patients, it is always best to be prepared, DCP Commissioner Michelle H. Seagull said in a statement. (WTNH) - Recreational marijuana sales in Connecticut start exactly two weeks from today. Connecticut's nation-leading medical marijuana program will continue to serve patients. All rights reserved, licensed hybrid retailers that they will be allowed to begin selling cannabis products, Together We Grow': Businesses Prepare for Legal Recreational Cannabis Sales, Low-Level Cannabis Possession Convictions Are Set to Be Cleared for Thousands in CT. NFL Combine 40-Yard Dash: Who Had the Fastest Time in 2023? Nine medical marijuana operators have successfully completed the steps needed to expand their businesses to include the new market for adults 21 and over. Waterford Planning and Zoning Commission voted in favor of banning the sale of recreational cannabis in town. Recreational marijuana is legal in Connecticut effective July 1, 2021, after the passing of. The state also is standing out for a focus on social equity before the Connecticut recreational cannabis market even opens. Of the 20 percent, 3 percent is also a local tax that goes to the city or town where the sale occurs. . The state also has a medical marijuana program for qualifying patients, which was passed into law under House Bill No. See the full list below. Recreational marijuana is legal in Connecticut effective July 1, 2021, after the passing ofSB 1201. Carjacking Suspect Seriously Injured in Crash Involving 5 Other Vehicles in Waterbury, Passenger on Plane Diverted to Bradley Airport Dies, Hartford Hospital's Transplant Team Saves Lives Every Day, NBC & Telemundo Connecticut Job Opportunities. Retail sales of recreational cannabis are expected to begin some time in 2022. This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Publics Members Dispensaries for medical cannabis have been open since of 2014. Last meeting about cannabis on May 10 - no decision was reached yet. The policies and procedures related to the home grow provisions of the medical marijuana program are also available at eRegulations.ct.gov. For priority, call to make an appointment or place an order via our online ordering system. Initially, those stores can provide delivery if they so choose. The following video from WFSB 3 digs deeper into the story of recreational cannabis in . But it's likely that many more will open in 2023 and beyond. The medical marijuana program isn't going anywhere at this time. Beyond that, it is up to individual stores to decide what they want to offer. Connecticuts largest municipality has reversed course and is now putting up the welcome sign for legalized cannabis businesses. There are 18 dispensaries in Connecticut and while nine of them are converting to offer retail cannabis, they are not scrapping the medical program. Yes, you can petition the Commissioner of Consumer Protection via its Board of Physicians. CORRECTS IDENTIFICATION TO LYNN GOLDSTEIN FROM LAURA BASS WRIGHT - Lynn Goldstein of Norwich, Conn, left, is . Learn more about what's in effect now. Copyright 2015-2023 dispensaries.com. If you are 21 and older and choose to use cannabis, do so responsibly. In-store purchases only. He is a graduate of Southern Connecticut State University. HARTFORD The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection has notified licensed hybrid retailers that they may begin selling cannabis products to all adults 21 and over beginning no earlier than 10 a.m., or as local zoning permits, on Tuesday, January 10, 2023. The rule is designed to ensure that adequate cannabis product is available for Connecticut medical marijuana patients. Up to 7 pre-rolled cigarettes that weigh 1 gram each, or 14 pre-rolled cigarettes that weigh 0.5 grams each. The ordinance would not allow a recreational cannabis retailer within 500 feet of any school, municipal park, municipal recreational facility or library. I think Connecticut is doing everything they can by legalizing, providing a great medical program and safe access for adult-use cannabis as well, Ravelson said. Connecticut has legalized it but recreational dispensaries aren't yet open. Curbside pickup. Are you sure you want to log out of your account? The citys planning and zoning commission voted on areas where a marijuana grower or a marijuana seller can set up shop in Derby. (203) 488-1388. When Gov. Ginny Monk ginny.monk@hearstmediact.com @GinnyMonk, Julia Bergman julia.bergman@hearstmediact.com @JuliaSBergman, Lindsay Boyle lindsay.boyle@hearstmediact.com @LindsayABoyle, Mike Pignataro mpignataro@stamfordadvocate.com, Andrew DaRosa andrew.darosa@hearstmediact.com @AndyDaRosa17, Derek Turner derek.turner@hearstmediact.com @DTurnerMedia. Michel said the money collected from the tax should go toward healthcare and education, education for sure. Is CT recycling going into the trash? Governor Ned Lamont passed a bill that legalized cannabis in 2021. The state plans to expand the number of stores later in the year. State officials are still setting up the legal system for. Patients in the Medical Marijuana Program may purchase up to five ounces per month. Each city and town was given the opportunity to decide whether to approve or prohibit establishments from opening in their community. Yes, patients can designate caregivers if a physician approves. Wilton's moratorium has been extended until Oct. 29, 2023. New information regarding the moratorium is not immediately available. Connecticut Marijuana Laws. Stands. The SEC already has approved 16 applicants for the first group of cannabis growers in Connecticut, according to the Hartford Courant. 2022 / 04:59 PM EST. BRISTOL, Conn. (WTNH) - The city of Bristol is preparing plans for recreational marijuana sales but not all residents are happy about it. . On April 22, 2022: Application of the Durham Planning and Zoning Commission for a Text Amendment for Section 14.7 of the Durham Zoning Regulations to allow Cannabis Establishments by Special Permit in Certain Zones with specific standards and conditions. The new state law allows recreational use of marijuana starting July 1 and will permit businesses to sell it beginning in mid-2022. Ned Lamont signed Senate Bill 1201 into law. Medical marijuana patients can grow up to three mature and three immature plants. Bristol adopted rules and regulations on adult-use cannabis in the city on August 10, 2022. Since the Connecticut legislature passed legal recreational cannabis in Connecticut in 2021, cities and towns across the state have been making decisions on how they will handle the new law. By accepting all cookies, you agree to our use of cookies to deliver and maintain our services and site, improve the quality of Reddit, personalize Reddit content and advertising, and measure the effectiveness of advertising. All rights reserved, Lawsuits Challenge Connecticut's Social Equity Process, These 2 College Friends Pawned Watches and Cars to Fund Their Cannabis StartupIt Could Bring in $400 Million This Year, Face the Facts: Where the Licensing Process for Recreational Cannabis in Conn. Medical dispensaries are currently open to qualifying patients. Recreational marijuana is already legal in Connecticut, but it was still on several ballots across the state. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are Date: December 16, 2021. Norwich is openly welcoming the industry. Home growers are currently not allowed to do so. Dec. 9, 2022 update: The state has announced that recreational weed sales will begin Jan. 10, 2023. 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