Launch Details: Connecticut’s adult-use cannabis program was established via legislative action. Public Act 21-1 was signed into law by Governor Ned Lamont on June 22, 2021, officially legalizing adult-use cannabis.
Enabling Legislation: Public Act No. 21-1, also known as SB 1201, passed in 2021. This legislation set forth a comprehensive framework for cannabis legalization, including licensing, taxation, and social equity initiatives.
Notable Amendments/Legal Adjustments: As of 2022, no major amendments have been passed to alter the foundational provisions of the program.
Historical Milestones: The passage of SB 1201 marked Connecticut as the 19th state to legalize adult-use cannabis, aligning with Governor Lamont’s campaign for cannabis reform to promote equity and reduce the impact of prior cannabis criminalization.
Legal Possession and Cultivation Limits
Possession Limits: Adults 21 and older may legally possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis in public and up to 5 ounces in a locked container at home or in their vehicle.
Cultivation Permissions: Adults can cultivate up to six plants per household beginning in July 2023, with no registration requirements.
Compliance Information: Cannabis must be stored securely, particularly when transported, to remain within legal possession limits.
Licensing and Business Regulation
License Types: Connecticut offers licenses for retailers, cultivators, product manufacturers, delivery services, micro-cultivators, and hybrid retailers (medical and adult-use).
Business Operation Requirements: Businesses must comply with seed-to-sale tracking, quality assurance testing, and packaging and labeling standards. Ongoing compliance audits are enforced.
Zoning and Fees: Cannabis businesses cannot operate within 500 feet of schools. Fees vary by license type, and some licenses have caps to encourage small business participation.
Tax Structure: A 6.35% state sales tax applies, along with a THC-based potency tax. Revenue is allocated to social equity programs, community reinvestment, and addiction treatment services.
Testing and Product Safety Standards
Testing Requirements: Mandatory testing includes THC and CBD potency levels, microbial and pesticide screening, and residual solvents testing. Testing must be conducted by licensed labs before products reach consumers.
Labeling Standards: Packaging must display THC/CBD levels, warnings, usage instructions, and batch information. Child-resistant packaging is mandatory, with restrictions against packaging appealing to minors.
Compliance Verification: Compliance is enforced through regular audits, with mandatory third-party lab testing and random product sampling by regulators.
Age and Access Restrictions
Purchase Age: Individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase adult-use cannabis products.
Public Consumption Rules: Public consumption is prohibited outside designated consumption areas; violators may face fines or penalties. Consumption is also banned in public parks and within 1,500 feet of schools.
Penalties for Violation: Violations of age or consumption rules may result in fines or citations, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses.
Social Equity and Community Impact
Social Equity Initiatives: Connecticut’s program dedicates a portion of tax revenue to social equity programs, reinvestment in communities affected by cannabis prohibition, and support for minority-owned businesses. The social equity council reviews applications to prioritize impacted applicants.
Local Control: Municipalities have the authority to opt-out of permitting cannabis businesses. Local governments must hold public hearings to solicit community input before setting restrictions or bans.
Consumer Protection and Enforcement
Recall Procedures and Consumer Complaints: Licensed businesses are required to have recall protocols for contaminated products. Consumers may file complaints with the Department of Consumer Protection.
Advertising Restrictions: Advertising targeting minors is strictly prohibited. Advertisements must not use cartoons, celebrity endorsements, or attractive visuals targeting youth.
Penalties and Compliance Measures: Violations, including unauthorized sales or failing quality standards, may lead to fines, license suspension, or revocation for businesses.
