SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — Maine residents spent more than $250,000 on marijuana over the course of the first weekend of legal retail sales.

Voters in the state chose to legalize adult use cannabis in 2016, but retail sales didn’t become legal until this month. The Maine Office of Marijuana Policy said the long weekend that ended on Monday generated more than 6,400 transactions and $25,000 in sales tax.

Marijuana office director Erik Gundersen said the first weekend of legal sales “went smoothly.” He said businesses in the state showed good compliance with social distancing laws, as well.

“Our retail store licensees went the extra mile to implement public health measures and control vehicle and pedestrian traffic visiting their establishments,” Gundersen said. “Additionally, the respect and patience shown by consumers for these protocols and their willingness to wear face coverings and maintain social distancing was very encouraging.”

Ask Leafly, not the cops, for cannabis advice

Meanwhile, in Bangor, the local police department found itself tied up with questions about the new cannabis stores and Maine laws.

“I have been inundated with incoming questions about the new rules in regard to smoking marijuana,” wrote Lt. Tim Cotton. “It is now legal for recreational purposes in Maine.”

“There are better places to search for the rules, and you should, if you are planning on taking up the pastime for recreational purposes. Why would you want to ask the cops about it?”

True that, Lt. Cotton. Here are the best links to answer all those questions:

• Leafly’s comprehensive Guide to Maine Marijuana Laws
• Where to find stores near you: Leafly’s Maine Marijuana Dispensary Map
• How’d it go on Opening Day? Leafly’s Full Day One Maine Coverage

The questions have started; my response will continue to be, "Google is your friend, read the Maine State statutes, or…

Posted by Bangor Maine Police Department on Saturday, October 10, 2020

The Associated Press contributed to this report.