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S 93

An Act dedicating one-percent of the recreational marijuana excise tax to youth substance use prevention

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Patrick O'Connor

Massachusetts bill dedicates 1% of recreational marijuana excise tax revenue to youth substance use prevention programs.

Accompanied a study order, see S2677
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Bill Summary · S 93

Legislative bill overview

S 93 would require Massachusetts to dedicate 1% of revenue from the recreational marijuana excise tax to fund youth substance use prevention programs. The bill directs this revenue stream to address substance abuse education and intervention efforts targeting young people in the state.

Why is this important

Recreational marijuana generates substantial tax revenue in Massachusetts, and dedicating a portion to prevention creates a direct link between the cannabis industry and youth health initiatives. This approach attempts to mitigate potential increased youth access or normalization of substance use that could result from legalization, while funding evidence-based prevention programs.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue allocation concerns: Critics may argue that 1% is insufficient for meaningful prevention programs, while others might contend that marijuana tax revenue should prioritize different state needs (schools, infrastructure, substance abuse treatment)
  • Prevention program effectiveness: Debate over which prevention approaches are most effective for youth and whether dedicated funding guarantees quality implementation versus political allocation
  • Philosophical tension: Funding youth prevention from marijuana revenue sales could be viewed as either appropriately addressing externalities of legalization or as contradictory messaging about substance use to young people

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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