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Bill

S 87

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

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Manny Cruz and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill directing cannabis tax revenue to communities harmed by drug war enforcement to address historical inequities and build wealth in disproportionately impacted neighborhoods.

Bill reported favorably by committee as changed and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Bill Summary · S 87

Legislative bill overview

S 87 proposes to direct a portion of Massachusetts cannabis tax revenues to communities disproportionately impacted by past drug enforcement policies. The bill addresses historical inequities from the war on drugs by creating a dedicated funding mechanism for affected neighborhoods. It represents an attempt to use cannabis legalization profits to remediate communities that experienced concentrated incarceration and enforcement.

Why is this important

Communities, particularly low-income neighborhoods and communities of color, experienced disproportionate enforcement of drug laws that resulted in mass incarceration and economic disruption. This bill acknowledges that same communities are now being excluded from the economic benefits of legal cannabis markets. The legislation addresses both historical justice concerns and current wealth-building disparities between communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding amount and allocation: Disagreement likely exists over what percentage of revenue is "fair," how funds are distributed geographically, and whether allocations adequately reflect past harms
  • Implementation and oversight: Questions about administrative mechanisms, eligibility criteria for communities, and accountability for how funds are actually used on the ground
  • Cannabis industry concerns: Legal cannabis businesses and tax authorities may argue that further revenue restrictions impact market competitiveness or state budgets for other services

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

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