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Maine Hemp & Cannabis Legislation Tracker | Glamorous Hemp
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Maine Hemp & Cannabis Legislation Tracker

Current Hemp & Cannabis Legislation in Maine

Maine has been at the forefront of cannabis reform in the United States, with a complex legislative history spanning both medical and adult-use programs. This page tracks the evolution of hemp and cannabis laws in Maine and provides up-to-date information on the legal status of various cannabinoids.

Key Legislation Overview

  • Adult-Use Cannabis: Legalized through the Marijuana Legalization Act, allowing adults 21+ to possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and cultivate up to 3 mature plants, 12 immature plants, and unlimited seedlings for personal use.
  • Medical Cannabis: Established in 1999 and expanded in 2009, Maine's medical program allows registered patients to possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis and cultivate plants.
  • Hemp Cultivation: Legal under the Maine Hemp Program, which was established following the 2018 Farm Bill, allowing for commercial cultivation with proper licensing.
  • Retail Sales: Adult-use retail sales began in October 2020, while medical dispensaries have been operating since 2011.

Maine Cannabis Legislation Timeline

1976

Maine becomes one of the first states to decriminalize cannabis possession of small amounts (up to 1.5 ounces), making it a civil violation rather than a criminal offense.

1999

Maine voters approve the Maine Medical Marijuana Act, becoming the sixth state to allow patients with specific conditions to use medical cannabis.

2009

Maine voters approve Question 5, expanding the medical cannabis program to include more qualifying conditions and establishing a dispensary system.

2016

Maine voters approve Question 1, legalizing recreational cannabis for adults 21 and older. The legislation allows personal possession of up to 2.5 ounces and cultivation of up to 6 mature plants.

2018

Following the federal 2018 Farm Bill, Maine establishes its Hemp Program, allowing for legal cultivation of industrial hemp with THC content below 0.3%.

2019

Governor Janet Mills signs LD 719, aligning Maine's definition of hemp with the federal definition and establishing a state licensing system for hemp cultivation.

2020

After delays in implementation, Maine finally launches its adult-use cannabis market in October 2020, with the first retail stores opening to the public.

2021

Maine passes LD 363, allowing medical cannabis caregivers to open retail storefronts without additional municipal approval.

2022

LD 1928 is signed into law, establishing regulations around delta-8 THC and other synthetic cannabinoids derived from hemp.

2023

LD 1948 passes, bringing several changes to Maine's cannabis laws, including modifications to testing requirements and packaging standards for both medical and adult-use programs.

Legal Status of Cannabinoids in Maine

Maine has specific regulations regarding different cannabinoids derived from both marijuana and hemp plants. The following infographic provides a current overview of the legal status of various cannabinoids in the state.

Cannabinoid Legal Status in Maine

Note: This information is current as of our last update but may change as legislation evolves. Always consult with a legal professional for the most current information.

CBD

Cannabidiol from hemp

Legal

Legal in Maine when derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC. Available in various retail locations without prescription.

THC

Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol

Legal with Restrictions

Legal for adults 21+ in limited amounts and for registered medical patients. Sale only through licensed dispensaries.

Delta-8 THC

Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol

Restricted

Limited legal status. Synthetic conversion from CBD is regulated. Only available through licensed cannabis retailers.

CBG

Cannabigerol

Legal

Legal when derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC. No specific restrictions on sale or possession.

CBN

Cannabinol

Legal

Legal when derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC. No specific restrictions on sale or possession.

HHC

Hexahydrocannabinol

Restricted

Semi-synthetic cannabinoid with unclear legal status. Subject to restrictions on synthetic cannabinoids.

CBC

Cannabichromene

Legal

Legal when derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC. No specific restrictions on sale or possession.

THCV

Tetrahydrocannabivarin

Restricted

Legal status depends on source and concentration. Subject to similar regulations as THC when above certain thresholds.

Maine Hemp & Cannabis Resources

State Agencies

Application Forms & Licenses

Legal References

Industry Organizations

Educational Resources

Consumer Information