WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SD 1142

An Act delivering a fair share of cannabis revenue to communities harmed by the war on drugs

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Liz Miranda

Massachusetts bill directs cannabis tax revenue to communities harmed by drug enforcement policies to address historical inequities from the war on drugs.

House concurred
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 1142

Legislative bill overview

SD 1142 proposes to direct a portion of Massachusetts cannabis tax revenue to communities disproportionately affected by drug enforcement policies and the war on drugs. The bill aims to address historical harms and inequities created by criminal justice enforcement in these communities through dedicated funding mechanisms.

Why is this important

Massachusetts legalized recreational cannabis in 2016 and has generated substantial tax revenue since. Communities with high rates of past drug-related arrests and convictions—often lower-income neighborhoods and communities of color—experienced concentrated policing, family disruption, and economic consequences. This bill attempts to use cannabis industry profits to remediate those documented harms through reinvestment in affected areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue allocation specificity: The bill's language regarding which communities qualify and how funds are distributed will determine effectiveness; unclear criteria could create political disputes or legal challenges
  • Funding adequacy: Whether cannabis revenue allocations are sufficient to meaningfully address decades of cumulative harm, or represent primarily symbolic action
  • Program design: Disagreement over whether funds should support restitution to individuals with prior convictions, community development projects, social services, or other uses
  • Business industry impact: Concerns that dedicating significant revenue reduces available funds for general state uses or cannabis regulatory infrastructure

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

Sign in to ask a question.