Marijuana Hemp and CBD Regulation in Massachusetts

What Are The State’S Specific Regulations Regarding The Cultivation Of Industrial Hemp in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, industrial hemp cultivation is regulated under the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Industrial Hemp Program. A grower must obtain a license from MDAR to cultivate industrial hemp in the state. The guidelines include minimum acreage requirements, land use restrictions, soil and water testing, sampling and testing of hemp plants, and recordkeeping requirements. Additionally, the grower must provide a detailed planting plan to MDAR for review and approval prior to planting, submit weekly reports during planting and harvest, and provide MDAR with crop samples for testing at harvest and after drying.

Are There Licensing Requirements For Hemp Growers And Processors in Massachusetts?

Yes, there are licensing requirements for hemp growers and processors in Massachusetts. Any person or entity wishing to cultivate, process, or handle industrial hemp or hemp products must obtain a license from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR). The license application requires applicants to submit detailed operational plans, as well as provide information on any applicable fees, grower qualifications, and criminal and civil background checks.

What Is The Legal Definition Of Industrial Hemp in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, industrial hemp is defined as Cannabis sativa L. plants and plant parts of the genus Cannabis that contain a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration that does not exceed three-tenths of one percent (0.3%) on a dry weight basis.

Do State Regulations Allow For The Sale Of Hemp-Derived Cbd Products in Massachusetts?

Yes, as of March 2020, hemp-derived CBD products are legal for sale in Massachusetts as long as they are produced in accordance with the regulations set out by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. The department requires that all hemp-derived CBD products comply with the requirements of the federal Farm Bill and that they must be tested by a third party to ensure their quality and safety.

Are There Restrictions On The Types Of Cbd Products That Can Be Sold, Such As Edibles, Tinctures, Or Topicals in Massachusetts?

Yes, there are restrictions on the types of CBD products that can be sold in Massachusetts. Edibles, tinctures, and topicals must be sourced from hemp plants with a THC content of less than 0.3%. Additionally, the products must not contain added flavors or sweeteners. Finally, the CBD product must include a label affirming the source and THC content.

What Labeling And Testing Requirements Apply To Hemp-Derived Cbd Products in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, hemp-derived CBD products are subject to the same labeling and testing requirements as other cannabis products. All such products must have a label with the following information: product type, batch number, strain of hemp used, mode of production, total amount of CBD present in the product, THC concentration, date of manufacture, and expiration date. In addition, all CBD products must be tested by an independent laboratory for cannabinoid contents and contaminants.

Do Regulations Differentiate Between Hemp-Derived Cbd And Marijuana-Derived Cbd in Massachusetts?

Yes. According to the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, hemp-derived CBD products are defined as “products made from industrial hemp that contain cannabidiol (CBD) and not more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis.” Marijuana-derived CBD products, on the other hand, are defined as “products made from marijuana that contain CBD and more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis.” Furthermore, marijuana-derived products must be obtained from a registered marijuana dispensary or registered independent testing laboratory. Hemp-derived CBD products may be purchased without a medical card at licensed health food stores, pharmacies, and other retail outlets.

Are There Restrictions On The Advertising And Marketing Of Cbd Products in Massachusetts?

Yes, there are restrictions on the advertising and marketing of CBD products in Massachusetts. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, businesses must comply with the Massachusetts Rules and Regulations for the Sale and Labeling of Hemp and Cannabidiol Products. These rules require that advertising and labeling for CBD products must not be false or misleading, must not contain health claims about CBD products, and should provide information about the product’s ingredients, including CBD content. Additionally, businesses are prohibited from using any words or images that promote the use of marijuana or marijuana-derived products.

What Is The Legal Age For Purchasing And Consuming Hemp-Derived Cbd Products in Massachusetts?

The legal age for purchasing and consuming hemp-derived CBD products in Massachusetts is 18 years old.

Is It Legal To Sell Or Use Smokable Hemp Products in Massachusetts?

Yes, it is legal to sell and use smokable hemp products in Massachusetts. However, the hemp must be tested and certified to ensure it meets certain requirements. Retailers must also comply with Massachusetts’ labelling and packaging laws.

What Are The Thc Concentration Limits For Hemp-Derived Cbd Products in Massachusetts?

There are no THC concentration limits for hemp-derived CBD products in Massachusetts. Under state and federal law, hemp-derived CBD products may contain 0.3% THC or less.

Are There Restrictions On The Sale Of Cbd-Infused Foods And Beverages in Massachusetts?

Yes. In Massachusetts, the sale of CBD-infused foods and beverages is restricted to licensed retailers or restaurants. Furthermore, any food or beverage containing CBD must be clearly labeled and may not contain more than 5 milligrams of CBD per serving. Additionally, the CBD must be derived from a hemp extract with a THC content of no more than 0.3% by dry weight.

Do Regulations Permit The Sale Of Cbd Products In Dispensaries, Pharmacies, Or Retail Stores in Massachusetts?

No, regulations do not permit the sale of CBD products in dispensaries, pharmacies, or retail stores in Massachusetts. The sale of CBD products is illegal in Massachusetts unless the product is derived from either hemp plants or hemp-derived products that have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.

Are There Any Limitations On The Sale Of Cbd Products Across State Lines in Massachusetts?

Yes, there are limitations on the sale of CBD products across state lines in Massachusetts. CBD products must be obtained from a licensed retailer, and must be labeled in accordance with Massachusetts’ labeling laws. Additionally, all CBD products must contain no more than 0.3% THC and must be registered with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

What Penalties Or Consequences Can Businesses Face For Non-Compliance With Hemp And Cbd Regulations in Massachusetts?

Businesses that fail to comply with the hemp and CBD regulations in Massachusetts could face a range of penalties or consequences, including:

1. Fines: Businesses may face fines of up to $25,000 for each violation.

2. License Suspensions: The Massachusetts Department of Agriculture may suspend a business’s license if it does not comply with the hemp and CBD regulations.

3. Civil Penalties: Businesses may also face civil penalties, which could include restitution or disgorgement of profits received from the sale of non-compliant products.

4. Criminal Penalties: Businesses that violate hemp and CBD regulations may be subject to criminal penalties, including imprisonment and/or fines.

5. Recalls and Seizures: The Massachusetts Department of Agriculture may recall products that do not meet regulatory requirements, or seize any adulterated or misbranded products.

How Does Our State Handle Cbd Testing, Quality Control, And Product Recalls in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, the Department of Agricultural Resources is responsible for the testing, quality control, and recall of CBD products. All CBD products must meet certain standards, including being tested for potency, purity, and safety. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that their products meet these standards. The Department of Agricultural Resources can take action against any CBD product that fails to meet these standards. Products may be recalled if they are found to be unsafe or not up to the required standards. Manufacturers must provide information to the Department of Agricultural Resources regarding any recall and how it was handled.

Do State Regulations Address The Issue Of Cbd As A Dietary Supplement Or Food Additive in Massachusetts?

Yes, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health has regulations that address the use of CBD products as dietary supplements and food additives in the state. The regulations specify that CBD products must not contain more than 0.3% THC and must be labeled in accordance with state and federal requirements. The regulations also specify that any CBD product sold as a dietary supplement or food additive in the state must be registered with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

Is There A System In Place For Reporting Adverse Effects Or Health Concerns Related To Cbd Products in Massachusetts?

Yes, there is currently a system in place for reporting adverse effects or health concerns related to CBD products in Massachusetts. Consumers are encouraged to report any potential issues with CBD products to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCABR). The OCABR has established a website to facilitate the accurate and timely reporting of any adverse events related to the use of CBD products.

Are There Specific Regulations For Labeling And Packaging Of Hemp-Derived Cbd Products in Massachusetts?

Yes, there are specific regulations for labeling and packaging of hemp-derived CBD products in Massachusetts. These regulations are outlined in 105 CMR 725.080 – Labeling and Packaging of Hemp-Derived Cannabidiol (CBD) Products. Labels must include the following information:

1. Identity of the product, including hemp-derived CBD or hemp extract as applicable
2. Net weight or volume of product
3. Common or usual name of each active ingredient
4. Name and address of the manufacturer or distributor
5. Warnings as specified in 105 CMR 725.080(2)(b)
6. Batch number, lot number, or other identifying information as applicable
7. Directions for use
8. Date of manufacture and/or expiration date
9. Serving size
10. Amount of CBD per serving
11. A statement that the product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease
12. A statement that the product has not been evaluated by the FDA
13. A statement that the product does not contain THC

What Resources Are Available To Help Businesses And Consumers Understand And Comply With Hemp And Cbd Regulations in Massachusetts?

1. The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC): The CCC oversees the legal cannabis industry in Massachusetts and provides resources to help businesses and consumers understand and comply with hemp and CBD regulations. These resources include informational webinars, written guidance documents, and more.

2. Hemp and CBD Industry Association: The Hemp and CBD Industry Association is a statewide trade organization representing businesses in the hemp and CBD industry in Massachusetts. The association provides members with access to educational resources, industry news, and legal assistance related to hemp and CBD regulations.

3. MassCann/NORML: MassCann/NORML is a non-profit organization that works to reform marijuana laws in Massachusetts. This organization provides resources to help businesses and consumers understand and comply with hemp and CBD regulations in the state.

4. National Hemp Association: The National Hemp Association is a national trade advocacy group representing the interests of all members of the hemp industry, including farmers, processors, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. The association provides members with access to industry-specific resources, including legal updates on hemp regulations in Massachusetts.