Hawaii officials have released a report on the potential economic impact of recreational marijuana legalization in the state, including revenue implications related to domestic and international tourism.
The report from Cannabis Public Policy Consulting—which was commissioned by the Hawaii Department of Health’s (DOH) Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation—looked at a wide range of policy considerations associated with potentially legalizing adult-use marijuana in the state.
All told, researchers said survey data and comparative analyses indicate that Hawaii could see anywhere from $46-$90 million in monthly marijuana sales by year five of implementation, after accounting for a maximum 15 percent tax rate on cannabis products.
The report, which came at the request of regulators last year, also examines how legalization could affect the state’s robust tourism sector, with projections that tourists will contribute upwards of $11.5 million per month “at minimum” if the reform is enacted.
While some lawmakers have previously expressed concern about tourism consequences of legalization, with speculation that Japanese tourists might be less inclined to visit Hawaii, the analysis found that the economic impact would likely be negligible.
“There is anticipated to be minimal loss from Japanese tourists, and gains from Canadian tourists that indicated they would
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