Someone Is Trying To Shut Down Every Weed Dispensary In Massachusetts

There is question that'll be on the Massachusetts ballot in November that will ask if you if you want to repeal legal recreational cannabis. Can you believe it? Most people don't have any idea it's going to be on there.

Folks probably aren't expecting it because the state just voted to legalize it in 2016 - and it's become a huge industry here. If it passes, the recreational cannabis market will be gone - illegal once again. Medical marijuana would not be affected.

The industry has generated nearly $2 billion in state and local tax revenue since then, supports more than 25,000 jobs statewide, and produces $1.6 billion in annual sales. Berkshire County alone has seen significant economic activity from dispensaries that have opened across the region in recent years.

So, why is this happening?

One organization. A Virginia-based national group called Smart Approaches to Marijuana, led by a guy named Kevin Sabet, bankrolled the entire campaign with $1.55 million. -princelobel.com

Every single dollar came from outside Massachusetts! Sabet's argument is that legalization created a pot shop on every corner, that kids are getting access, that drivers are impaired, and that Massachusetts voters didn't sign up for what they got.

Plus, the potency of marijuana these days is seemingly stronger and stronger.

Critics say the real reason is simpler. Alcohol and gambling interests don't love competition. And if SAM can kill legal cannabis in Massachusetts, one of the most progressive states in the country, they can use it as a blueprint to roll it back everywhere else.

It's worth noting that similar repeal campaigns in Arizona and Maine both failed this year. Massachusetts is the last one standing.

The question is not expected to pass, with only 20% favoring repealing legal recreational cannabis in Massachusetts. See you in November!