While these last few months have become a blur for many, continuing uncertainties are expected. Many industries have been hit hard from closures and emergency changes in operations. The cannabis industry is clearly no exception. The global COVID pandemic turned tables and shut doors, but it did allow cannabis to be seen in a different light – both publicly and legislatively.
Not only did most US cannabis-legal states declare medical cannabis retail sales to be essential, many enacted emergency allowances that allowed for a slew of new avenues of retail sales. When looking in the rear-view when this all begins to settle, there are many changes that both cannabis companies and consumers hope to become permanent changes.
One of the first declarations in cannabis legal states was allowing new ways for cannabis consumers to access retail sales. Out of fear, initially lines formed around dispensaries by panicked buyers afraid this was their last opportunity. This opened the eyes of state representatives, who quickly acted. By allowing both delivery and curbside pickup, dispensaries were able to serve patients and customers without excess contamination of retail spaces. With the addition of online ordering in some states, cannabis consumers and retailers are hoping the success of these new services prove long term change should be made.
Not only does the above offer less crowded shops, less person to person exposure, and convenience – it makes sales and operations even more efficient. By being able to address all previous concerns (being able to confirm purchaser identity, securing product and cash during delivery, and properly document transactions), the industry has shown that these emergency allowances should become regular opportunities.
Another exception some states made were adding the ability to see a doctor virtually to obtain or renew medical cards. In March, Governor Jared Polis issued an executive order temporarily lifting a state law requiring physical examinations for medical marijuana recommendations; he did so in order to prevent possible COVID-19 exposure for both patients and medical professionals. That order was set to expire in April but was extended until May 30. Now, doctors and patients alike are beginning to worry that it won’t be extended again.
Many would like visits via telemedicine to be made a permanent option for MMJ patients. According to Colorado Governor Jared Polis spokesman Conor Cahill, the governor would be open to changing the law permanently via legislation. For patients who are immunocompromised, the opportunity for telemedicine appointments are not only useful but strongly advised.
While we all know that the cannabis industry is still in its early stages and is growing daily, yet the opportunity to witness how a global medical pandemic can affect every sector. From growers, processors, distributors, retailers, to consumers – the cannabis industry just got a huge push forward through all this. Even states that lack legal access are now seeing an increased push for legalization to make up financial losses caused by all this.
The Coronavirus has been around for a few years. During this time, researchers conducted studies on a wide range of topics. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research explored cannabis consumption and COVID-19. Researchers found that those who consume cannabis were associated with lower COVID-19 severity among those who have been hospitalized,…
Gilbert Anthony Milam Jr., American rap artist and founder/CEO of the cannabis brands Cookies and VIBES Papers, is celebrating the launch of his new Cookies store in Thailand. Gilbert, whose stage name is Berner, described the Southeast Asian nation’s first cannabis store opening as “a huge step into the global market.” Berner, who has released…
Have you wondered what the best cannabis subscription boxes are on the market today? If so, you’re not alone. Many consumers wonder which monthly box is actually worth the money, and what you can look forward to in the mail each month. There are many different types of boxes out there. Most of them only…
Chicken soup for the soul? Well, if it’s infused with cannabis, it’s going to do more than soothe the soul! Whether you consider yourself a talented cook or someone who merely enjoys dabbling with different dishes in the kitchen, this cannabis-infused chicken soup recipe will have you yearning for another spoonful after each gulp. But…
Is there anything that cannabis cannot do? As more research is conducted, the list of health benefits grows. One recent discovery indicates that the cannabinoid CBD (cannabidiol) might just be the next big thing for treating testosterone imbalances. Studies have outlined that CBD — a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, rich in anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic properties — may…
For many people, cannabis has become the vice of choice- leaving behind alcohol and other illicit substances. Which makes sense when one…
Cannabis stands to impact midterm elections, Thailand’s public health minister is fighting back against anti-cannabis opposition, and a poll shows that Maryland…
Kratom seems to be everywhere. You hear about it in random conversations, see ads for kratom on billboards, see it on shelves…
