PORTLAND, Maine (Portland Press Herald) Maine plans to create a new division of the state Drug Enforcement Agency tasked with regulatory compliance as well as monitoring illegal activity that competes with state-licensed growers, processors and retailers.
The Portland Press Herald reports that Michael Sauschuck, commissioner of the Maine Department of Public Safety, said Monday the four-person unit will be funded annually by $649,000 in cannabis tax and licensing revenue.
Advocates for cannabis say the state should be trying to help businesses comply with regulations, not prosecute them.
Rep. Kent Ackley believes the unit will create a “risk premium” and force the shut down of the black market.
