Any additional guidance, including future updates related to major substantive rulemaking for the Adult Use Cannabis Program, will continue to be made available on OCP’s website.

Pursuant to P.L. 2023, ch. 679 going into effect on August 9, any adult use cannabis store licensees choosing to move purchaser ID checks from the entrance of the store to the point-of-sale are advised that an update to the store’s facility plan of record is required prior to changing the layout of the licensed premises of the cannabis store.

P.L. 2023, ch. 679 also permits entry of minors into a cannabis store when accompanied by a parent, guardian, or custodian. While licensees are not required to permit accompanied minors to enter a store, those that do are reminded that following a plan of record change and pursuant to 28-B MRS § 504(4), “A person must be 21 years of age or older to make a purchase from a cannabis store. A cannabis store may not sell any item to a minor.” Therefore, a minor accompanying their parent, guardian, or custodian into a cannabis store is not permitted to purchase any item nor receive consultation in a cannabis store.

Additionally, adult use cannabis stores should not permit any person who is, or appears to be, a minor to loiter within the cannabis store without verifying that the individual is in fact at least 21 years of age or a minor accompanied by their parent, guardian, or custodian.

Dean Goodale first joined the OCP team in April 2021 as a field investigator. In July 2024, Dean started a new position as OCP’s Director of Compliance where he works to ensure program participants are compliant with the rules and statutes governing Maine’s cannabis programs.

“Protecting the public’s health and safety is my primary goal as the Director of Compliance,” Dean said of his goals at OCP. “Another goal is to make sure that caregivers, business owners, and employees receive a consistent message from field investigators. I encourage OCP field investigators to continue to work closely with businesses to assist them in keeping up to date on legislative and rule changes that regularly occur throughout the industry.”

Prior to his employment at OCP, Dean gained more than 27 years of experience in law enforcement. Outside of work Dean enjoys many outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing. He also makes a point to read as much as possible.

OCP’s Municipal Reimbursement Program helps reimburse municipalities for qualifying expenses associated with opting to permit adult use cannabis establishments. This includes legal fees, staff time, and more!

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