Massachusetts Act to Tax and Regulate Cannabis

The revenue that cannabis tax would generate for Massachusetts, if House Bill 2929 passes, would be an astounding amount. According to Attorney Richard Evans, the Taxation and Regulation of Cannabis bill is set to be heard by the house tomorrow, October 14, 2009 in Room B2 at the Statehouse in Boston, Massachusetts. The hearing is open to the public and you have the opportunity to speak for three minutes if you so desire.

An Act to regulate and tax the cannabis industry, House Bill 2929, was filed on, January 16, 2009, in Massachusetts. Presented by Ellen Story for petitioner Richard Evans for legislation to the Joint Committee on Revenue. The Cannabis Act contains 45 sections and includes regulating via licensing, labeling, cannabis grading, and taxing sales and licenses. Also, noted in the bill is the prohibition of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of cannabis, et al. It would end the prohibition of marijuana for those growing and buying for personal use, with no intention of reselling. Most advocates of legalizing marijuana have no qualm about paying marijuana tax.
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Of course, marijuana would still be illegal under federal law but the majority of arrests for marijuana possession and sales are at the state and county level. The exception being those making immense profits from selling large amounts of cannabis. Chances of the bill actually passing are slim. However, the cannabis act is a giant step toward putting change the negative views society has placed on marijuana. California's legalization of marijuana for medicinal purposes has also helped this cause.

If you are able to take the time to attend this hearing, dress nicely - Represent!! Make your voice heard! If you are unable to attend in person - act now to sign the petition for house bill 2929. The NORML website has a very simple pre-filled email that you can submit to the state house via email. Just scroll down to the section titled, "Take Action."

Sources:
Materials on Cannabis Taxation and Regulation, Richard M. Evans
House Bill 2929, An Act to Tax and Regulate Cannabis Industry, Presented by Ellen Story,Richard Evans Petitioner, January 16, 2009.
Tax and Regulate Marijuana In Massachusetts, The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws