Key Provisions of the Bill
Statewide Delivery Access
The bill would amend existing law to prohibit the Cannabis Control Commission from restricting cannabis deliveries based on municipal boundaries. This change would ensure delivery access to all areas of the Commonwealth.
Deliveries to Lodging Establishments
HB 145 also seeks to authorize deliveries directly to overnight lodging facilities, including hotels, motels, and resorts, expanding consumer access for travelers and temporary residents.
Emergency Implementation
Declared as an emergency law, the bill would take effect immediately upon passage. Legislators backing the bill argue this urgency is necessary to remove regulatory burdens on equity-owned cannabis businesses before the end of their license exclusivity period.
Background and Context
Massachusetts has allowed cities and towns significant control over cannabis operations within their jurisdictions, leading to uneven access across the state. Delivery services have been especially impacted, with some municipalities prohibiting delivery altogether. This fragmented approach has created market challenges, particularly for social equity licensees seeking to grow sustainable businesses.
Proponents argue that standardizing delivery rules will reduce barriers to market participation and offer consumers greater flexibility and access, regardless of where they live.
The bill arrives amid broader discussions about cannabis policy in the state, including proposed updates to licensing regulations, market caps, and equity participation rules.
Public Hearing Details
Date & Time: Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Format: Hybrid — participants may testify in person or virtually.
Participation:
Oral testimony can be provided in person or through Microsoft Teams.
Written testimony may be submitted by email or mail to the committee.
The session will be livestreamed, and a recording will be made available for public viewing.
Legislative Timeline
Following the hearing, the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy will decide whether to advance the bill to the full House for consideration. The committee faces a reporting deadline of August 15 to take action on the measure. If approved, the bill would proceed through both legislative chambers and require the Governor’s signature before becoming law.
Broader Implications
If passed, HB 145 could reshape the landscape of cannabis access in Massachusetts by:
Enhancing opportunities for equity-owned cannabis businesses.
Increasing delivery access to underserved or restricted areas.
Streamlining the regulatory framework to support industry growth.
The debate will likely include discussions on balancing local control with statewide consumer access, as well as potential concerns regarding enforcement and public safety.
Conclusion
As Massachusetts continues refining its cannabis policies, HB 145 presents a critical opportunity to create a more inclusive and accessible delivery system. The upcoming hearing on June 17 will provide a forum for lawmakers, advocates, business owners, and residents to weigh in on the future of cannabis delivery across the Commonwealth.
Dabbin-Dad Newsroom
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