PORTLAND (WGME) — A citizen-led group in Maine is working to gather nearly 68,000 signatures to qualify a ballot measure that could significantly alter the state’s cannabis landscape.

The proposed “Act to Amend the Cannabis Legalization Act and the Maine Medical Use of Cannabis Act” would end recreational marijuana sales and introduce stricter testing requirements for medical cannabis.

Marijuana (WGME)

“There are many reasons this measure has been put forward, from health concerns, to public safety, to the environment,” Caroline Cunningham, representing the campaign sponsor Mainers for a Safe and Healthy Future, said. “Maine is the only state that does not require any testing for medical marijuana. Without testing, illicit marijuana grown with highly toxic pesticides is being laundered into Maine’s legal market, putting public safety and patient safety at risk. This measure would require medical marijuana be tested for contaminants, including highly toxic pesticides used by illicit grow operations. It would still allow for personal possession of recreational marijuana. Only recreational marijuana stores and grow operations would be banned.”

The referendum would eliminate licensed recreational cultivation, manufacturing and retail operations, though adults 21 and older could still possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis for personal use.

“We are very concerned about this petition, we just think it’s a step in the wrong direction,” Maine Cannabis Industry Association member Mike Saxl said.

Saxl warns that the initiative could harm Maine’s economy and workforce.

There’s a new push to regulate Maine’s medical marijuana industry. (WGME)

“Maine’s cannabis industry represents about $250 million and if you combine it with the medical communities, we are the largest agricultural product now sold in Maine,” Saxl said.

He added that approximately 10,000 jobs depend on the industry.

Saxl also argued that repealing the adult-use market could revive illicit sales, which lack age restrictions and safety measures. However, some residents, like Joan Leitzer, support the measure, citing concerns about youth access to marijuana.

There’s a new push to regulate Maine’s medical marijuana industry. (WGME)

“I’m especially concerned about young people without fully developed frontal lobes buying marijuana and having that be a gateway drug to other things,” Leitzer said.

If the group secures 67,682 signatures, the initiative could appear on the November 2026 ballot. Then if approved by Maine voters, it would become law in January 2028.