Impacted Indivduals

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For decades, cannabis laws were enforced in ways that harmed all communities but disproportionately harmed certain communities, resulting in arrests, convictions, incarceration, housing instability, lost employment opportunities, and long-term economic consequences.

Even as cannabis legalization moves the industry forward, many individuals continue to live with the impact of those past policies.

The City of Boston is committed to providing clear information, support, and pathways forward. Whether you are seeking to seal or expunge a record, understand your eligibility for programs, or explore opportunities in the legal cannabis industry, you will find resources here to help you navigate the next steps.

Equity is not only about access to business opportunities, it is also about addressing the lasting harm of past enforcement and ensuring meaningful participation in the future of this industry.

Who Are Impacted Individuals

Impacted Individuals

Those With Prior Cannabis Records

People arrested, charged, or convicted for cannabis offenses.

Residents of Disproportionately Impacted Communities

Residents or previous residents of communities with higher rates of drug enforcement.

Those Facing Barriers from Criminal Records

Individuals whose records continue to affect housing, employment, education, childcare/parenting, and access.

Sealing Your Cannabis Record

Check If Your Record Can Be Sealed

There are different eligibility requirements for sealing criminal records depending on whether or not there was a conviction.

How To Seal Your Record

Find out how to seal your criminal record and what paperwork you'll need to file.

Expunging Your Cannabis Record

How to Expunge Your Record

Learn if you can expunge your record

Expunge a Marijuana Offense

Permanently remove eligible marijuana offenses that are no longer crimes under Massachusetts law.

Additional Resources

Office of Returning Citizens

Connect with programs and support services that help individuals returning from incarceration navigate employment, housing, and reentry opportunities.

Fair Housing and Equity

Find information on housing rights, rental assistance programs, and resources that can help individuals with past records access stable housing.

Boston Cannabis Equity Program

Access training, technical assistance, and resources designed to support individuals from communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition who are interested in participating in the cannabis industry.

Worker Empowerment

Explore job training programs, career resources, and workforce development initiatives designed to support individuals facing employment barriers.

Legal Assistance

Legal aid organizations and clinics that provide free or low-cost assistance with record sealing, expungement, and other legal matters.