In a move to encourage legal purchases of medical marijuana, Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) has signed legislation suspending the usual 6% tax on medical cannabis for a two-week period surrounding the 4⁄20 cannabis celebration. The holiday will run from April 15 to April 28, offering patients and caregivers an incentive to choose licensed dispensaries over the illicit market.
Encouraging Legal Purchases and Supporting the Industry
The signed bill was returned by Mayor Bowser to lawmakers on Tuesday, following its unanimous approval by the District Council earlier this month. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie (I), who introduced the measure, emphasized its importance in attracting qualifying patients back to the legal market and supporting the district’s medical marijuana industry.
With an estimated 200 unlicensed dispensaries in operation, of which 70 are seeking transition into the regulated market, this tax holiday is a strategic step towards enhancing the appeal of legal options while combating the threat posed by illicit cannabis operations. A prior medical cannabis tax holiday was also included in a 2022 bill to address rising dispensary costs and illegal competition.
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The council also addressed other cannabis-related matters last week, defeating a proposal adjusting rules for locating medical marijuana dispensaries near schools while considering extending the district’s enforcement authority during Congress’s review of regulatory bills. While certain medical cannabis retailers are already required to be 300 feet from schools or recreation centers, a recent policy exemption has been granted for those in commercial or industrial zones.
Despite suggestions from some council members that broader legalization should be considered, a recurring congressional rider continues to block D.C. leaders from regulating an adult-use cannabis market. Federal lawmakers’ latest funding legislation maintained this rider, preventing progressive marijuana policy changes in the district.
Federal Roadblocks and Advocacy for Change
As federal lawmakers maintain their stance, concerns arise about state marijuana laws and the impact on licensed businesses. Marijuana Moment is committed to bringing you the latest updates and relies on reader support to continue its cannabis advocacy journalism.
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