Medical marijuana business new license moratorium could get extended

February 28, 2026 - 22:15

State lawmakers are currently considering legislation that would significantly prolong a freeze on new medical marijuana business licenses. The proposed bills could extend the existing moratorium all the way into 2028, maintaining the current market structure for several more years.

The ongoing pause, initially established to allow regulatory frameworks to mature and market stability to develop, has been a point of contention. Proponents of the extension argue it is necessary to protect the investments of existing license holders and ensure a controlled, safe rollout of the medical program. They cite the need for further study on market saturation and regulatory oversight before introducing new competitors.

Patient advocates and some industry hopefuls, however, express concern. They argue that an extended moratorium limits patient access by restricting the number of dispensaries and could inflate prices due to reduced market competition. The potential four-year extension is seen by critics as overly cautious, potentially stifling business growth and innovation within the state's legal medical cannabis industry.

The final decision now rests with the state legislature, where the competing priorities of market control and expansion will be debated. The outcome will shape the landscape of medical marijuana availability for years to come.