Maine Office of Cannabis Policy Partners with Retailers to Launch Consumer Education Initiative

Free lockable storage bags and educational materials available to cannabis patients and consumers statewide through participating “Safe Storage for ME” retailers

AUGUSTA, Maine – The Maine Office of Cannabis Policy (OCP) today announced the launch of Safe Storage for ME, a new initiative in collaboration with 222 medical and adult use cannabis retailers that will provide free lockable storage bags to thousands of cannabis patients and consumers statewide.

Like other age-restricted or prescription products, cannabis and cannabis products at home should be stored in a locked container, out of reach, and out of sight of children and pets. Safe Storage for ME will proactively promote these responsible storage habits by distributing free lockable storage bags and educational materials at the point of sale, with the overall goal of reducing accidental ingestions and youth/pet access to cannabis at home.

“OCP is excited to be partnering with nearly half of the state’s medical and adult use cannabis retailers on this important, voluntary consumer education initiative,” said John Hudak, Director of the Office of Cannabis Policy. “The cannabis industry works hard to comply with safeguards like child-resistant packaging, so patients and consumers are encouraged to be mindful of additional safeguards they can take at home as they open and consume their cannabis products. This includes responsible storage habits. OCP has been thrilled with the enthusiasm industry has shown in helping promote this message.”

The safe storage bags are being distributed to participating retailers on a rolling basis throughout January and February 2024. Any medical cannabis patient over the age of 18 and adult use consumer over the age of 21 is eligible to receive one bag, no purchase necessary, while supplies last.

More information on the Safe Storage for ME initiative can be found at www.maine.gov/dafs/ocp/safestorage.

About the Office of Cannabis Policy (OCP)
The Mills Administration created the Office of Cannabis Policy (OCP) within the Department of Administration and Financial Services (DAFS) in February 2019. The Office is responsible for the oversight of all aspects of legalized cannabis in Maine, including the Medical Use of Cannabis Program and the Adult Use Cannabis Program.