AG Approves Mansfield's Marijuana Moratorium Extension

MANSFIELD, MA — The day to start selling recreational marijuana in Massachusetts is less than a week away but in Mansfield, there's about a year to go.

The Attorney General's office confirmed the approval of the extended moratorium through June 2019, following inquiries from the Boston Globe. The approval, expected by town officials, represents a reversal by AG Maura Healey, who previous indicated that temporary bans extended beyond 2018 were “longer than is reasonably necessary” and “could be viewed as unconstitutional.”

Town Meeting approved the extended moratorium last May. They also approved a pair of zoning bylaws - one for the sale of recreational marijuana and another for recreational marijuana cultivation. The cultivation district is in the area of School Street and retail sales will be allowed in Erin Plaza, Mansfield Crossing, and in the smaller shopping areas on School Street right off of Route 140.

A 3 percent tax on all recreational marijuana sold in town also passed at the meeting.

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