As Massachusetts continues to legalize marijuana for recreational purposes, the state is requiring host community agreements to be made between cannabis businesses and the towns they are located in. A host community agreement is a contract between a marijuana establishment and the town or city where it`s located. This includes requirements for impact fees, local hiring practices, and compliance with local laws.
The host community agreement is a crucial step for a marijuana business to obtain a license from the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission. Without this agreement, a business will not be able to operate legally within the state. The agreement is intended to ensure that the community where the business is located receives benefits from the presence of the cannabis industry.
The agreement outlines the responsibilities of the marijuana business to the community. It`s designed to make sure that the community benefits financially from the business. The host community agreement may require the business to pay an impact fee or donate a percentage of their sales to the community. This fee or donation can be used for things like public safety, health education, and community projects.
The host community agreement may also require the business to implement local hiring practices. This can help to ensure that the jobs created by the cannabis industry go to local residents. The agreement may also require the business to prioritize hiring people with criminal records and/or those from communities disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs.
Additionally, the host community agreement will require that the marijuana business is in compliance with local laws and regulations. This includes zoning laws, building codes, and local health and safety standards. The goal is to make sure that the community is protected and that the marijuana business operates responsibly.
In conclusion, the host community agreement is a critical component of legalizing marijuana in Massachusetts. It helps to ensure that the community benefits from the presence of the cannabis industry, while also making sure that the business complies with local laws and regulations. By working together, both the marijuana business and the community can thrive.