AUGUSTA - The Maine House and Senate delivered strong bipartisan votes to advance a measure introduced by Rep. Lynne Williams, D-Bar Harbor, that gives Maine's small medical marijuana growers and caregivers a greater say over any new rules generated by the Maine Office of Marijuana Policy (OMP). The House voted 117-25 to advance the measure, and the Senate advanced the bill by unanimous consent.
LD 1242 freezes Maine's current medical marijuana rules, adds legislative oversight to future rule changes and creates more consultation with local caregivers and patients. The measure also initiates a study on the effects of proposed rule changes and creates a process to review potential consultant hires by OMP. In addition, LD 1242 eliminates the requirement that registered caregivers, registered dispensaries, marijuana testing facilities and manufacturing facilities complete an annual audit of business transactions conducted by a third party.
"This bill will protect both Maine's medical marijuana patients and local trusted caregivers and allow them to thrive," said Williams, an attorney and longtime medical marijuana advocate. "It will prioritize smaller, locally owned facilities over larger, out-of-state corporations, and it will give Maine people a greater say over a medicine that has helped so many people. I'm thrilled so many of my colleagues from all parties are willing to take a stand on this issue".
During its public hearing, William's bill received supportive testimony from organizations like the Maine Cannabis Coalition, the Maine Craft Cannabis Association and the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association.
The bill faces further consideration in both the House and Senate.
Williams, a member of the Legislatures Transportation Committee, is serving her first term in the Maine House and represents Bar Harbor, Lamoine and Mount Desert.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Williams], c. 812-1111