Police cannot search people or places based solely upon the odor of burnt marijuana. 

At 10:00 AM on Patriots' Day 2011, the Supreme Judicial Court issued its decision in Commonwealth v. Cruz, a case that it had under consideration since oral arguments on December 9, 2010. Ordinarily, the SJC issues decisions within 120 days of argument.  The Cruz decision issued 131 days after argument.  The delay lead many to speculate that the six justices who heard the case were deadlocked, they weren't.  They were waiting to issue it on this important day in Massachusetts history and the day before 4/20.

As the Annual Town Meeting season begins we are learning of towns that will have local bylaws increasing the penalty if captured in the act of consumption or possession in a vehicle.

Please let us know at treasurer(at)masscann.org if you learn of such outrageous proposal in your town or city.

Cities and Towns With Public Consumption Laws through October 20, 2010