Legislative and Licensing Update: December 1, 2021

Confusion continues in New Jersey’s license application process plus local-level participation in New York lead this week’s cannabis news.

Plus supreme court action in South Dakota, social equity criteria in Connecticut, a legislative tally from NORML, and international movement on loosening prohibition.

New Jersey put out a recorded webinar yesterday to answer questions about the application process, yet questions linger.

 

In New York, only 9 percent of New York towns and villages have moved to ban marijuana retailers and on-site consumption facilities at this point, but still have until the end of the month to take action.

 

South Dakota‘s Supreme Court on Wednesday sided with the state’s governor and struck down a ballot initiative to legalize recreational adult-use cannabis that passed with 54% of the vote.

A new report from NORML shows that marijuana reform had “unprecedented” success in state legislatures this year. From legalization to decriminalization, to medical access—over 50 pieces of marijuana reform legislation were enacted.

 

Connecticut regulators posted draft marijuana social equity criteria.

 

Arizona regulators have proposed revised social equity rules following lawsuits from civil rights groups.

 

The United Arab Emirates is relaxing some drug penalties, including for travelers who bring THC-containing products into the country.

 

Mexican lawmakers are circulating a revised draft of a marijuana legalization bill that the Senate majority leader wants to pass by December 15.