Adult-use marijuana retailer sales in Massachusetts hit a new high in June, while medical marijuana sales in the state stagnate.
According to information from the state’s Cannabis Control Commission, retail sales reached $132.8 million in June 2023. The gross sales total since adult use retailers opened in late 2018 to early this month is pegged at a whopping $4.74 billion.
The cost of adult-use cannabis in Massachusetts has dropped significantly over the years. In January 2020, the average retail cost of flower per gram was $14.69. In June 2023, it was just $5.82, a new record low.
As for medicinal marijuana purchased through treatment centers, there were $19 million in sales last month; the second lowest monthly result so far this year. The highest monthly total was back in March 20 21 – $27.7 million. Treatment center sales to patients and caregivers since March 2019 is estimated at $1.08 billion.
In states where recreational sales are permitted, it’s not unusual for this to negatively impact on medical sales as consumers often consider the retail route a relatively hassle-free option with better access to products. But there can be advantages under medical programs. In Massachusetts, adult-use marijuana is subject to various taxes:
- A state sales tax of 6.25%
- A state excise tax of 10.75%
- A local option tax for cities or towns: up to 3%
The sale of medical-use marijuana is not subject to tax in Massachusetts, assuming patients present their program ID Card and valid government-issued identification at the time of sale.
Massachusetts law also allows for registered medical marijuana patients to home-grow up to twelve flowering and twelve vegetative cannabis plants. Adult-use consumers can also home-grow, but are limited to no more than 6 cannabis plants or up to 12 plants for two or more adults.
However, Massachusetts’ medical program is rather restrictive in terms of qualifying conditions; which are Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), cancer, Crohn’s disease, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease.
Further information on the state’s medical and adult-use programs can be found on the Cannabis Control Commission’s website.
