Springfield Cannabis CEO Fights Ballot Repeal Measure
The 6 Brick's owner warns that a pending statewide vote could eliminate thousands of local jobs.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Payton Shubrick, the CEO of the downtown Springfield dispensary 6 Brick's, is actively campaigning against Massachusetts ballot Question 8. The proposed measure aims to repeal the state's legalization of recreational cannabis, which could dismantle the industry.
Why it matters
The outcome of the vote carries significant stakes for the local economy and the future of legal cannabis operations in the Commonwealth. Shubrick argues that the industry provides vital employment opportunities and promotes community health.
The average price of cannabis has fallen significantly from $16 per gram in 2022 to under $5 in 2026. The state currently supports 27,000 industry jobs across 400 retail locations.
The players
Payton Shubrick
She is the CEO of the 6 Brick's cannabis dispensary and a vocal advocate for the industry.
6 Brick's
This is a retail cannabis dispensary located in downtown Springfield that opened in 2022.
The details
Shubrick operates the business with a focus on customer education and community wellness, donating one dollar to strategic partners for every sale of a branded product. To date, the company has donated $7,000 to local entities including Square One, Educare, and the Springfield Symphony Orchestra.
Timeline
2019: Payton Shubrick honored as BusinessWest 40 Under Forty.
September 2022: 6 Brick's opened in downtown Springfield.
2026: Average cannabis price per gram dropped to under $5.
November 2026: Massachusetts election day featuring Question 8.
Market Landscape
The campaign against Massachusetts ballot Question 8 highlights the ongoing tension between established legal cannabis businesses and efforts to reverse statewide deregulation. This shift positions dispensary owners against a movement that could force the closure of hundreds of retail sites.
The potential passage of the repeal measure could result in the total closure of the local dispensary and the loss of associated community donations. Customers should monitor the November election results to understand the future status of recreational cannabis access.
The takeaway
The dispensary continues to prioritize community involvement through its donation program while the industry faces a critical legislative test. Readers should remain informed about how the upcoming election will impact both local businesses and the state economy.
What happens next
Voters will cast their ballots on the repeal measure during the Massachusetts election held in November 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local business efforts in our Philanthropy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by BusinessWest.
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