A Little About Cannabis in Massachusetts

The legal status of cannabis is constantly in flux in the United States. On a federal level, cannabis is still illegal and considered a Schedule I drug by the DEA. Over recent years, however, select states have passed laws that have made cannabis legal (with certain limits, of course), for medical and/or recreational use.

In Massachusetts, the first law passed to legalize cannabis use was for medical patients in 2012. In 2016, the state voted to legalize it recreationally, as well. To check in on the most up-to-date details of cannabis’ legality and restrictions in MA, click here. We’ll lay out some of the most important aspects of the legislation below.

1. Even though it’s legal for recreational use, no person is permitted to use cannabis, in any form, while in a public area or on federal property.
2. Since it’s still illegal on a federal level, you absolutely cannot cross state lines with cannabis – even if you’re going from one legalized state to another.
3. Like alcohol, you cannot have an open container of cannabis within reach in your car; it needs to be in a closed container that’s in either your glove compartment or your trunk.
4. DUIs still apply here (obviously), so utilize Ubers, public transportation or sober friends to help you get where you want to go.
5. Even though it’s legal in the eyes of the state, private individuals (landlords, employers, corporations) are still able to set their own drug use and screening policies that you must abide by.
6. More than anything, just be smart with your cannabis use. Use your judgment and reason and, when in doubt, always take the more cautious route. Your safety, as well as the safety and well-being of other humans around you, should always be your main concern.

Questions on any of this? Our team at Reverie 73 is here to help! You can send us a message or ask one of our Muses for help the next time you stop by.