Massachusetts is one of two East Coast legalization attempts for the 2016 general election.
Polling has shown that a majority of Massachusetts voters support the Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act, though the campaign faces steep opposition in the form of anti-legalization adverts and a $1 million contribution towards the anti campaign by casino mogul Sheldon Adelson. Nevertheless, advocates have out-fundraised and have hopefully out-performed their opposition throughout the year.
Check back later for updates to this post as election results come in!
Update 11:54 pm EST – Question 4 has been declared successful, with 53 percent support and 47 percent opposed, making Massachusetts the first state to legalize recreational cannabis on the East Coast.
Update 9:41 pm EST – The Associated Press via Google Election Tracker shows Question 4 polling at 52 percent in favor and 48 percent opposed with 18 percent of precincts reporting.
Update 9:02 pm EST – The Associated Press via Google Election Tracker shows Question 4 polling at 50/50 with 5 percent of precincts reporting.
Question 4, “Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act”
Personal possession limits: 1 ounce of flower in public, 10 ounces at home, 5 grams of concentrates in public.
Taxes: 3.75 percent excise tax, plus state sales tax. Local government can add up to a 2 percent tax.
Fees: $3,000 retail, product manufacturer, cultivator, and testing application fee.
$15,000 for retail, cultivation, and product manufacturing licenses.
$10,000 for a testing license.
Revenue disbursement: Does not specify, will be determined by commission.
VIDEO: Overview of Cannabis Initiatives
Below is a brief overview of all the different state-level cannabis initiatives on the ballot this election cycle. With nine total states voting on expanding access to cannabis, this year presents an unprecedented opportunity for legalization advocates and medical cannabis patients.
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