Opportunities in the Connecticut Cannabis Market

Joining the domino of cannabis legalization in the United States, Connecticut is one of the most recent states to enact legislation that legalizes cannabis use recreationally. Connecticut previously only permitted the use of medical marijuana, but will soon allow retail sales. The state released guidelines last week that provided some answers for those interested in entering this developing market.

Current Status

Connecticut is the 19th state to legalize adult-use cannabis. As of July 1st, adults that are 21 or older are legally able to have up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis on their person and keep up to 5 ounces in a sealed container at home or in a trunk or glove box. This bill was issued into effect immediately, however, it will take some time to roll out the retail aspects. Although the legalization of cannabis is new for recreational use, Connecticut has allowed the usage of medicinal cannabis since 2012. The state intends to use their thriving medical program as a blueprint while establishing standards and regulations for recreational use.

Cannabis Businesses

It is likely that Connecticut will not begin cannabis retail sales until 2022, but the state plans to establish multiple ways to get involved in the industry. Existing medical businesses will have the opportunity to apply to convert their business to an adult-use facility and a portion of applications will be reserved for social equity candidates. Although existing towns will have the authority to block cannabis businesses within their borders through zoning laws, they will not be able to prohibit deliveries.

Connecticut has announced that it will allow the following cannabis business license types:

Cannabis Cultivator
Cannabis Micro-Cultivator
Cannabis Retailer
Cannabis Manufacturer
Cannabis Food and Beverage
Cannabis Delivery / Transport
Cannabis Packager
Cannabis Hybrid Business

As of now, The Department of Consumer Protection has not released information in regards to how many applications will be available, what application processes will look like, or what fees will be associated with the process. Participants that are looking to apply for a license are highly encouraged to look for updates on applications and other details on the state’s cannabis website. Applications are expected to be made available in the coming months.

Cannabis News

After the passage of the bill legalizing cannabis, Connecticut launched a website as a way to keep citizens informed. Connecticut is not the first state to take this communication approach, with other states including New Mexico and New York having previously launched similar cannabis websites. By having information readily available on the website, residents will be able to stay up-to-date, as well as find necessary information to answer any questions. The Connecticut government has committed to offering transparency throughout the process leading up to the sale of cannabis for recreational use. The website will be updated regularly as decisions are made by the social equity committee and The Department of Consumer Protection.

As of this month, medical cannabis patients in Connecticut can home grow their own cannabis. Medical patients are currently permitted to home grow up to 6 cannabis plants (or 12 per house hold), although home grow for adult use will not be made available until July 1, 2021.

In an effort to provide safe spaces for cannabis consumption, the state will generally allow cannabis smoking anywhere that cigarette smoking is allowed. However, Connecticut’s law states that cannabis smoking is prohibited in hotels/motels, prisons, and within 25 feet of buildings catering to the general public. The new law does dictate that communities with populations over 500,000 must set aside an area designated for cannabis consumption/smoking, but there are currently no guidelines in place as to the size or location of these areas. Despite some lingering questions about the developing adult-use market in Connecticut, the state has still come a long way in increasing access to cannabis.

How Can Sapphire Risk Help?

Tony Gallo and the team at Sapphire Risk Advisory Group have over 30 years of security experience and expertise. Sapphire has worked in 34 states, including Connecticut, and has aided in submitting over 420 cannabis business applications. Follow us on social media to stay up to date with Connecticut cannabis industry updates!