By Bob Katzen

The Cannabis Policy Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would establish a $100 to $500 civil penalty for a driver possessing an open container of marijuana or marijuana-infused edibles in the passenger area of a motor vehicle — similar to the state’s open alcohol container law. The measure also creates exemptions for certain vehicles including limousines and RVs.

“I filed this bill with hopes of creating more structure and regulation within the developing industry,” said sponsor Rep. Marcus Vaughan (R-Wrentham). “I feel while this is a great addition to the commonwealth’s economic standpoint there needs to be more awareness on the public health side to promote safety.”