Maine Implements Metrc for Cannabis Seed to Sale Tracking

Main’s Office of Marijuana Policy (OPM) announced in early February they awarded a new contract to Metrc; the agency had just cut ties with BioTrack THC after an eight-month contract. The $540,000 contract is for six years and will use RFID chips to track cannabis plants and products throughout both Maine’s medical and adult-use markets. 

“We are excited to partner with Metrc,” said Maine’s Director of OPM Erik Gundersen in a press release. “Metrc is an industry leader, and their team is committed to delivering a product that will allow us to proceed with the launch of our adult use program later this spring.”

According to a Metrc press release, scheduled training “roadshows” were adapted statewide throughout March to follow new social distancing guidelines. Despite numerous challenges, the system was delivered in sixty days. 

“We appreciate Metrc’s ability to deliver a completed track-and-trace solution within one of the tightest timeframes imaginable.  Thanks to the dedication and hard work of the Office of Marijuana Policy and Metrc teams, this important milestone was realized as scheduled at the end of March. We look forward to a long, productive relationship and utilizing Metrc to help ensure the success of the programs we regulate.” — Gundersen, in a statement

Additional training will be provided to licensees prior to Metrc issuing user credentials.  The RFID chips cost $0.45 and $0.25 each, while licensees will pay a $40 monthly fee to access the statewide tracking system.