Very Important News: Pot Shops ARE Essential And Open in WA State!

When Washington State Governor Jay Inslee announced further shutdowns in his “Stay at Home” Emergency Declaration on Monday, March 23rd, it was obvious that essential services like grocery stores, pharmacies and gas stations would remain open during the 2020 Coronavirus Pandemic sweeping the planet.

But, many, many, MANY of us immediately wondered: “WHAT ABOUT POT SHOPS?!?!?!?!?!? ARE THEY CONSIDERED ‘ESSENTIAL’???”

And, happily, the answer is…YES! The State of Washington wisely considers them essential to our physical and mental well-being. Obviously, they have to obey certain guidelines…see below on what the State told “Cannabis License” holders…basically it allows for “curbside service” but obviously this is only for 21+ so leave the young ones at home; they can’t even be in the car with you!

Note: We’d suggest checking with your favorite retailer before heading out, to make sure they’re open and how they’re dealing with orders; you might need to order via their website.

AND, if you’re looking for tips on how to bake with cannabis, then check out “Cannabis Kitchen with Bitsy Bates” a fun webseries from the local drag queen/cannabis chef!

Guidance for Cannabis Licenses: Effective Immediately

Curbside Service

• Applies to: Cannabis Retailers

At this time, cannabis producers, processors and retailers are considered essential and not required to close due to the coronavirus restrictions. However, to promote social distancing, the LCB is temporarily expanding curbside sales beyond qualified medical patients to allow sales to all adult customers as long as certain restrictions are in place.  This is an option in addition to mandatory measures for retail establishments set forth by Gov. Inslee and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Restrictions

• Drive-thru windows are not allowed;
• IDs must be checked — no one in the car may be less than 21 years of age;
• Curbside sales areas must be stationary and physically designated on the leasehold property, preferably as close to the building as possible. Examples of physical designations for curbside service include:
  • Tape or painted parking spots for vehicle parking;
  • Cones or signage for vehicle parking;
• Where possible, video cameras should be monitoring and recording the designated sales area;
• Outdoor sales from a tent or kiosk are not allowed.