Legalization of Marijuana/Cannabis

January 30, 2017

A Date to Remember

LD 88

            January 30, 2017 started the legalization of Marijuana/Cannabis for folks 21 years of age or older. It is a dynamic shift in the way local law enforcement looks at the issue. On one hand the voters in the State of Maine have approved its use while federally it is still illegal. We are sworn to uphold the United States Constitution as well as the laws of Maine and ordinances of Kennebunkport so one can see our dilemma. It is important for folks to have some basic facts as the new law is written.

  • If you are 21 years of age or older, you may possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana.
  • If you are 21 years of age or older, you can give away up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana to another person 21 years of age or older.
  • You are NOT allowed to use/consume marijuana or its derivatives in public.
  • You are NOT allowed to use/consume marijuana or its derivatives in a motor vehicle on a public way.
  • You are NOT allowed to purchase a gun if you use marijuana or its derivatives. It is a federal crime.
  • You MAY grow your own marijuana. You may possess six (6) mature plants, twelve (12) immature plants and an unlimited number of seedlings. You MAY NOT grow marijuana where it is visible to others and must be secured to prevent access by someone under the age of 21. Each plant must be tagged with owner’s name and Maine driver’s license number or identification number.

There are other important issues and prohibitions that every individual should research prior to embarking into a relationship with either marijuana use or its sale. Many of the business issues have been suspended until February or 2018 to allow proper regulation and oversite. We ask our citizens to be careful of unintended consequences with the new allowable use of marijuana. Ensure you are in a safe environment when using and lock up any unused material to prevent little ones from being exposed. The Kennebunkport Police Department will ensure that officers are being trained and have the equipment needed to properly enforce impaired driving

Respectfully,

Chief Craig A. Sanford