The year 2021 will go down in legal cannabis industry history as the one of the most eventful and monumental years within the scope of progress: in regards to legalization, innovation, and removing the stigma of cannabis and harmful policies that have plagued American communities for far too long.
When Connecticut became the 19th state to legalize the recreational use of cannabis, it joined an already-impressive list of other states that have also moved to legalize over the past few years – states such as Arizona, New Jersey, New York, New Mexico and others. And, with more and more cannabis reform on the collective docket, it doesn’t seem like the steamroller of legalization is set to stop any time soon.
At PufCreativ, there are many reasons why we follow all of this legislative action so closely, but perhaps the main reason is that we’re deeply committed to social equity and making sure we’re doing our part for local communities while working to remove the above-mentioned stigma.
Previously, we touched on our excitement for adult-use cannabis legalization in New York State and New Jersey; let’s now complete our ‘Tri-state trifecta’ as we discuss the particulars of why we’re so excited about The Constitution State’s newly approved cannabis program.
“I think it will be the most comprehensive and best cannabis legalization bill in the country,” – House Majority Leader Jason Rojas, D-East Hartford.
When Gov. Ned Lamont signed the bill marking the legalization of adult-use cannabis in Connecticut, it was a major victory for its citizens and for the United States in general. Under the new law, people aged 21 and older are now able to consume and possess cannabis within the state. Furthermore, as you’ll see in this blog, this new law also provides the groundwork for working to address the racial inequalities that stem from harmful draconian drug policy.
We’re Excited for Our Friends & Family in the Tri-state Area!
If you’ve been following along with our PufCreativ blogs, you’ll remember that although our expert team is composed of diverse folks from all over – many of us are originally from the Northeast. Therefore we’re beyond thrilled for our hometown communities, friends and family that no longer have to deal with not being able to get access to natural cannabis-based wellness, legally.
Because the Tri-state area — New York, New Jersey, and now Connecticut — is now in concert when it comes to the legal status of recreational cannabis, this will make things a whole lot easier, safer, and less confusing. Let’s hope more and more states surrounding the Tri-state area also follow suit: (we’re looking at you, Pennsylvania!)
We’re Excited About Connecticut’s Cannabis Social Equity Program!
As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, perhaps the main reason we’re so excited for cannabis marketing in Connecticut is that it opens a substantial door into righting the wrongs caused by the War on Drugs. While some states have frustratingly neglected this portion of legalization, we’re thrilled to say that (while the proposed program is certainly not perfect) the state does in fact plan to tackle issues of social equity with its inevitably massive cannabis tax revenue.
Within 45 days of the bill’s passage, Connecticut’s Cannabis Social Equity Program plans to conduct a study to address the following issues:
- Historical and current social, economic, and familial consequences of cannabis prohibition, the criminalization and stigmatization of cannabis use, and related public policies;
- Historical and current structures, patterns, causes, and consequences of intentional and unintentional racial discrimination and disparities in the development, application, and enforcement of this prohibition and related public policies;
- Foreseeable long-term social, economic, and familial consequences of unremedied past racial discrimination and disparities arising from past and continued cannabis prohibition, stigmatization, and criminalization;
- Existing patterns of racial discrimination and disparities in access to entrepreneurship, employment, and other economic benefits arising in the state’s medical marijuana sector; and
- Any other matters that the council deems relevant and feasible to study for making reasonable and practical recommendations for establishing an equitable and lawful adult-use cannabis business sector.
After this study and with a firm deadline of January 1st, 2022: “the Social Equity Council must make recommendations to the governor and the General Law, Judiciary, and Finance, Revenue and Bonding committees for legislation to implement these social equity provisions.” — Music to our ears!
Why Choose PufCreativ for Your Cannabis Industry Marketing Needs?
Any professional (cannabis grower, dispensary owner, etc.) will tell you that navigating the cannabis industry is an experience unlike any other. It’s rough out there. However, with the expert guidance of trusted organizations such as our team at PufCreativ, starting out won’t seem so scary.
We take pride in being the number one destination for prospective and current forward-thinking cannabis businesses that are focused on becoming trailblazers within their specific lanes. Allow us to infuse your project with style, professionalism, know-how and efficiency — the difference will be clear.
If you’d like to learn more about our services, or to get started on a project — visit our Get Started Page or email hello@pufcreativ.com
