What Are The Requirements For Obtaining A License To Operate A Marijuana Retail Dispensary in Connecticut?
In order to obtain a license to operate a marijuana retail dispensary in Connecticut, the applicants must meet the following requirements:1. Demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to operate and maintain the dispensary;
2. Provide proof of a valid local zoning permit to operate the dispensary;
3. Submit a detailed application to the Department of Consumer Protection;
4. Submit an operating plan that outlines security and inventory control measures;
5. Comply with any additional regulations established by the Department of Consumer Protection; and
6. Pay any associated fees.
Are There Limitations On The Number Of Marijuana Retail Dispensary Licenses Issued in Connecticut?
Yes, there are limitations on the number of marijuana retail dispensary licenses issued in Connecticut. The state’s Department of Consumer Protection has set a limit of nine retail dispensary licenses that can be issued.What Zoning Restrictions Or Location Requirements Apply To Marijuana Dispensaries in Connecticut?
Marijuana dispensaries in Connecticut must comply with local zoning regulations. To open a dispensary, applicants must obtain approval from the local zoning authority, and land use restrictions may apply. Local zoning regulations can include distance restrictions from schools, childcare centers, and other public areas, limits on the number of dispensaries in an area, and specific standards for the operation of the dispensary, such as security measures and hours of operation. Additionally, dispensaries must be located in an area zoned for commercial or industrial use.What Types Of Marijuana Products Can Be Sold In Retail Dispensaries in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, medical marijuana is available in a variety of forms at licensed dispensaries. These include dried flower, edibles, tinctures, concentrates, and topical products. All products must follow state regulations and be tested for quality and safety.Are There Specific Labeling And Packaging Requirements For Marijuana Products in Connecticut?
Yes, there are specific labeling and packaging requirements for marijuana products in the State of Connecticut. All marijuana products must be labeled with the following information: the name and address of the licensed production facility; the date the product was manufactured; the name and percentage of THC and CBD; a list of any other cannabinoids present in the product; a list of any other ingredients added to the product; a universal symbol indicating the product contains marijuana; a warning that the product is intended for adult use only; a statement that the product has not been evaluated by the FDA; and directions for use. All marijuana products must also be packaged in child-resistant packaging.How Are Marijuana Prices Determined And Regulated in Connecticut?
Marijuana prices are largely determined by the laws and regulations of the state. In Connecticut, all marijuana products are taxed at a flat rate of 25%. The Connecticut markets are mostly regulated by the Department of Consumer Protection and the Department of Revenue Services. The Department of Consumer Protection regulates prices through a system of Medical Marijuana Dispensary pricing regulations. This sets the maximum price certain medical marijuana products can be sold for in the state. Additionally, the Department of Revenue Services oversees businesses in the marijuana industry that require licensure and collects taxes from those who partake in the industry.What Are The Security And Surveillance Requirements For Marijuana Dispensaries in Connecticut?
The security and surveillance requirements for marijuana dispensaries in Connecticut are outlined in the state’s medical marijuana regulations (section 21a-408-88 of the Connecticut Regulations of State Agencies). These requirements are as follows:1. Security Requirements: Marijuana dispensaries must have a security system that is designed to deter and detect unauthorized entry and/or theft. This includes an alarm system that is monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as well as video surveillance of the inside and outside of the dispensary. All entrances must be equipped with surveillance cameras that record 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
2. Surveillance Requirements: Dispensaries must have a video surveillance system that records all activities within the dispensary, including sales and customer interactions. This footage must be recorded continuously for at least 30 days. The footage must also be viewable in real time by authorized personnel.
Are There Restrictions On Advertising And Marketing Of Marijuana Products in Connecticut?
Yes. Advertising and marketing of marijuana products in Connecticut is subject to numerous restrictions. Retailers may not be located within 1,500 feet of a school or daycare center, must display posters warning of the health risks of marijuana, and must not advertise using television, radio, or outdoor billboard advertisements. Additionally, promotional items such as t-shirts, hats, and other items with marijuana-related branding are prohibited.What Is The Minimum Age Requirement For Entering A Marijuana Dispensary in Connecticut?
The minimum age requirement for entering a marijuana dispensary in Connecticut is 21 years old.Are There Restrictions On The Hours Of Operation For Marijuana Dispensaries in Connecticut?
Yes. Medical marijuana dispensaries in Connecticut are required to be open for business between the hours of 8:00am and 8:00pm. In addition, dispensaries may not be open on Sundays.What Are The Tax Implications For Marijuana Retail Sales in Connecticut?
The Connecticut Department of Revenue Services have not yet established any specific tax obligations related to marijuana retail sales. However, retail cannabis businesses will likely be required to collect and pay the state sales and use tax. Additionally, the Connecticut Marijuana Legalization and Expungement Act of 2021 provides for a 10% special marijuana excise tax on retail sales of marijuana. This tax is expected to be enacted in 2021 and is not yet in effect.How Are Marijuana Dispensaries Monitored And Inspected For Compliance in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, marijuana dispensaries are monitored and inspected by the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP). The DCP is responsible for issuing licenses to medical marijuana dispensaries, ensuring that all dispensaries follow state regulations, and conducting thorough inspections to ensure proper compliance. As part of the inspection process, DCP staff inspects dispensaries for compliance with security requirements, record-keeping requirements, the quality of medical marijuana products, pest control protocols, and other relevant regulations. If any violations are found during an inspection, a dispensary may be subject to warnings, fines, and other disciplinary action.What Training And Certification Requirements Apply To Dispensary Staff in Connecticut?
Training and certification requirements for dispensary staff in Connecticut vary depending on the type of dispensary. All medical marijuana dispensaries must have an agent-in-charge who has completed a Medical Marijuana Dispensing Assistant course offered by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. All dispensary agents must also complete a one-hour training course approved by the Department of Consumer Protection. Additionally, dispensaries must conduct regular staff training sessions in topics such as security, customer service, and medical marijuana laws.Are There Specific Requirements For Record-Keeping And Inventory Control in Connecticut?
Yes. In accordance with Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) § 21a-240, any person who manufactures, dispenses, or distributes controlled substances must keep accurate records and inventories of those drugs. Such records must include the name and quantity of controlled substances purchased or received, the date of purchase or receipt, the name and address of the seller or donor, and the name and address of the person that received the controlled substance. The records must also include the name and quantity of all controlled substances dispensed or distributed by such person and the date of such transactions. All records and inventories must be retained in a secure location for at least three years from the date of transaction.What Penalties Or Consequences Can Dispensaries Face For Violating Regulations in Connecticut?
Penalties and consequences for dispensaries in Connecticut that are found to be in violation of regulations can include:1. Fines of up to $2,000 for each violation.
2. Loss of license or permit.
3. Suspension of the business’s license or permit for up to 60 days.
4. Revocation of the business’s license or permit.
5. Imprisonment of up to one year for a first-time violation.
6. Imprisonment of up to three years for multiple violations.
English 
Spanish