MA application process for recreational marijuana retailers opens

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(This story has been updated from an earlier version.)

Massachusetts medical marijuana dispensaries hoping to also do business in the recreational market can begin applying for licenses April 2.

According to TV station WCVB, under the Cannabis Control Commission’s final rules, which went into effect Thursday, the state is offering “priority certification” to:

  • Operating MMJ dispensaries that want to open adult-use stores.
  • Prospective marijuana businesses that seek to operate in low-income or minority communities that were disproportionately affected by the so-called war on drugs.

Recipients of priority certification will earn a place in line to seek a marijuana business license on April 17, the Needham TV station reported.

Recreational cannabis retailers can open as soon as July 1 under the new rules.

According to The Boston Globe, businesses seeking licenses for cultivation, craft marijuana cooperatives and microbusinesses may begin the application process May 1.

Those seeking permits for retail stores, cannabis product manufacturing and marijuana transportation may begin applying June 1, the Globe reported.

WCVB noted adult-use applicants may face setbacks because municipalities retain “the final say on whether a business can open” in their jurisdiction.

Once it’s up and running, Massachusetts’ adult-use market is poised to be one of the most lucrative in the nation because it has relatively few restrictions.