The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) has issued hefty fines to two prominent cannabis companies, Ascend Wellness Holdings and Curaleaf Holdings, for failing to meet consumer safety standards. These fines, totaling $165,000, come after both companies self-reported incidents that raised concerns about their compliance with state regulations.
Ascend Wellness, operating three dispensaries in the state, was hit with an $85,000 fine for failing to comply with the state’s track-and-trace system. This system is designed to track cannabis products from seed to sale, ensuring accountability and preventing illegal distribution. In Ascend’s case, regulators were unable to verify the delivery of nearly 900 cannabis products due to discrepancies in their tracking processes. While the CCC deemed these violations significant, Ascend’s president and co-founder, Frank Perullo, assured that the company has taken corrective measures. “Ascend is fully committed to adhering to the regulations set forth by the CCC and places great importance on compliance,” Perullo stated. “We have already implemented most of the necessary actions and remain dedicated to restoring trust.”
Meanwhile, Curaleaf, a major player in the Massachusetts cannabis market, was fined $80,000 for failing to adhere to best practices in preventing contamination at its cultivation sites in Amesbury and Webster. These violations, dating back to 2021, included facility maintenance issues such as unsecured doors and gaps in ducts, creating potential risks for contamination. The CCC has placed Curaleaf on a six-month probation, during which the company must report any pesticide detection and could be subject to third-party testing to ensure compliance. Curaleaf, in response, emphasized its commitment to customer safety. “The health and safety of our patients and customers remains our number one priority,” the company stated, adding that they have made necessary changes to prevent future issues.
Both companies have publicly committed to improving their operations and working closely with regulators to ensure future compliance. These incidents highlight the importance of rigorous oversight and the need for cannabis businesses to prioritize consumer safety and regulatory compliance. The CCC’s actions send a clear message that violations will not be tolerated, and companies must actively demonstrate their commitment to safe and responsible practices in the cannabis industry.
