Brave New World : Marijuana Legalized in Connecticut

Since Gov. Lamont signed the bill legalizing marijuana for recreational use in Connecticut, new flexibility will be needed across all areas of law. Clearly, we could see this coming down the road, literally, whether from Massachusetts which legalized cannabis in 2016, or from New York which legalized recreational marijuana several weeks ago. Like it or not, the change in the law was inevitable and now Connecticut will be the 17th state where it is legal. More changes will also likely come at the federal level.
The bill summary prepared by the CT Office of Legislative Research is available at the following link: https://www.cga.ct.gov/2021/BA/PDF/2021SB-01201-R02SS1-BA.PDF
Nevertheless, until changes do come from the US Congress, there will continue to be some “double vision” in the interpretation of laws as they impact the growing cannabis industry. As a preliminary matter, this will likely be a wholly intrastate endeavor, at least in the short term. Transporting marijuana over federal highways technically impacts federal Department of Transportation regulations. Thus, while legal in our neighboring states to the north and south, this does not necessarily mean that moving pot products in the Northeast region will be permissible. In addition, federal banking laws will continue to be at a crossroads with this legislation. Initially, the hurdles for cannabis dispensaries and farms will be challenging for owners.
At Brown, Paindiris & Scott, LLP, our multidisciplinary lawyers can help you navigate all of the upcoming obstacles associated with the new recreational marijuana law, whether from a licensing perspective in opening a dispensary to other affected areas. Call us today at 860.659.0700 to be sure all of your rights and interests are protected.