Martha’s Vineyard Dispensary Sues for Cannabis Transport Rights

LOS ANGELES- A dispensary in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, has filed a lawsuit against the state Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) over rules prohibiting the transport of cannabis products by boat across the Vineyard Sound. The lawsuit, initiated by Geoff Rose, owner of Island Time, challenges the regulations that prevent him from importing cannabis from the mainland, arguing that these rules are arbitrary and burdensome for island dispensaries.

State regulations, aligned with federal law, currently ban the transportation of cannabis across water and airspace between mainland Massachusetts and Martha’s Vineyard. Rose’s lawsuit contends that Vineyard Sound falls under state jurisdiction, which should permit such transport. “For more than 11 years, my efforts have centered on providing safe and responsible cannabis to local residents and visitors alike. I’m hoping that the court will mandate the commission take immediate action to allow us to transport the product from the mainland,” Rose told the Vineyard Gazette.

The issue has gained urgency following the closure of Fine Fettle Dispensary, the island’s only cannabis production facility. This has left Island Time without a local supply, as Fine Fettle had been the sole provider. Rose attempted to mitigate this by having cannabis delivered by boat from the mainland in March, which the CCC opposed, citing federal law.

The CCC stated that they are exploring possible accommodations for island dispensaries but reiterated that current laws do not permit transport from the mainland. “At this time, transportation of marijuana from the Commonwealth mainland to the island counties is not one of those accommodations,” the CCC said, announcing plans for a public meeting on Martha’s Vineyard to discuss potential solutions.

The lawsuit highlights the impact on medical cannabis patients on the island. Commissioner Kimberly Roy noted that the lack of access would affect 234 patients. Local resident Sally Rizzo also expressed concern, emphasizing that without a retail source for her medical cannabis, her quality of life would deteriorate.

Rose has temporarily closed Island Time due to the supply issues but remains hopeful for a resolution that would allow him to reopen with a consistent product supply from the mainland.