Cannabis
What is Maine's Law on Cannabis
Medical Cannabis
Maine has allowed physicians to prescribe cannabis for therapeutic use since 1999 but the law was not implemented until the November 2009 approval of citizen-initiated legislation providing for the licensing and regulation of caregivers and dispensaries. Though voters had approved the text of the law, implementation was postponed to allow for review by a Task Force, amendment of the law by the Legislature, and promulgation of DHHS rules.
- Read our webpage on Maine’s medical cannabis law. **This webpage is no longer updated, and is for informational use only. It was last updated 4/8/2025. For additional information related to this topic, please Ask a Law Librarian.
Adult Use Cannabis
In November 2016, voters approved Question 1, which legalized cannabis for recreational use. Beginning January 30, 2017, persons 21 years or older were allowed to use (in a private place), possess, or transport up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis. Also in January 2017, the Legislature approved a moratorium on retail sales until February 2018. On May 2, 2018, the Legislature overrode the Governor's veto of LD 1719, which facilitates "the development and administration of a regulated marketplace in the State for adult use marijuana." Adult use cannabis is regulated by the Office of Cannabis Policy.
- Sales Tax
Until January 1, 2026, 36 MRS §1811(D)(5) imposes a 10% tax "on the value of adult use cannabis, adult use cannabis products and, if sold by a person to an individual who is not a qualifying patient, cannabis and cannabis products beginning on the first day of the calendar month in which adult use cannabis and adult use cannabis products may be sold in the State by a cannabis establishment licensed to conduct retail sales pursuant to Title 28‑B, chapter 1."
"For sales occurring on or after January 1, 2026, the applicable rate of tax under this subparagraph is 14%."
- Read our webpage on adult use cannabis in Maine. **This webpage is no longer updated, and is for informational use only. It was last updated 4/8/2025. For additional information related to this topic, please Ask a Law Librarian.
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