Healey just signed a major overhaul to the state’s Cannabis Control Commission. Here’s what to know.

Gov. Maura Healey on Sunday signed an overhaul of the state’s troubled Cannabis Control Commission, approving a law that restructures the agency, raises the cap on business licenses, and doubles the legal purchase limit to two ounces.

The reforms arrive at a perilous moment for Massachusetts’ cannabis industry, which is grappling with falling prices due to oversupply, growing competition from neighboring states, and continuing regulatory uncertainty.

Representatives approved the draft law. H.5350On April 9, after months of negotiations between the House of Representatives and the Senate.

“The cannabis industry is an important part of the Massachusetts economy – supporting jobs, local businesses and generating revenue for cities and towns,” Healey said in a statement. “It is important that we do everything we can to make sure this industry is set up for success.”

Here’s a look at the changes:

The draft law entered into force immediately after the governor signed it. Healey now has 30 days to appoint the three commissioners, up from five. Haley’s office said he has already begun the process of finding new commissioners. The new Chairman of the Committee will appoint the Executive Director.

“Throughout this transition, the organization will remain focused on its core mission of regulating a safe and fair cannabis industry for Massachusetts consumers, patients, business leaders and taxpayers,” Executive Director Travis Ahern said in a statement. statement.

The bill also raises the maximum number of licenses a person can obtain from three to six – a controversial move that critics say favors large companies. However, the expansion will help owners who want to transition out of the industry by facilitating the sale or transfer to employee-owned businesses.

The bill would also allow new licensing categories, including on-site consumption, event-based use, and research licenses.

Additionally, the bill increases the amount of recreational marijuana a person can purchase and possess from one ounce to two ounces.

It also eliminates the requirement for a medical marijuana license to grow and process the marijuana they sell. The bill would allow marijuana to be delivered to all cities and towns within the state.

The House version’s final bill does not include regulations on hemp-derived products, but it asks the committee to study the issue and make recommendations.

The bill would also direct the commission to study the effects of the marijuana tax on businesses and consumers.

“This bill represents an important step forward to ensure that as the cannabis industry evolves in Massachusetts, it does so in a way that expands opportunity and reflects our shared values,” Senate President Karen Spilka said in a statement.

Beth Trevesen is a general assignment reporter for Boston.com, focusing on local news, crime and business in the New England region.