Massachusetts Gives Green Light to On-Site Marijuana Consumption in Yoga Studios, Theaters, and Other Venues
In a move that is expected to expand the marijuana industry in the state, Massachusetts has approved regulations allowing non-cannabis businesses to host consumption areas. The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (MCCC) unanimously voted in favor of the decision, which will enable yoga studios, movie theaters, and other venues to obtain a cannabis license and allow adults aged 21 and older to consume marijuana on-site.
The new rule, which takes effect immediately, will allow licensed Marijuana Establishments (MEs) to partner with non-cannabis businesses to create consumption areas. This means that consumers will be able to purchase and consume marijuana at these venues, which could include yoga studios, movie theaters, and other businesses.
The MCCC chair, Shannon O’Brien, said that Massachusetts residents have been eagerly waiting to socially consume marijuana, and this new rule will offer economic opportunities to small businesses and entrepreneurs who have been disproportionately affected by the war on drugs.
However, social consumption licenses are not yet available, and the commission will be working on an implementation plan to create new consumption establishment applications, guidance, and vendor training.
The move comes as the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve. In December, President Donald Trump reclassified marijuana as a less dangerous drug, moving it from Schedule 1 to Schedule III. This change is expected to have a significant impact on the industry, as it will make it easier for researchers to study the effects of marijuana and for patients to access it for medical purposes.
A recent study published by researchers at UC San Francisco found that eating edible cannabis, such as gummies, has the same effect on cardiovascular risk as smoking marijuana. The study found that cannabis users were found to have decreased vascular function, which is comparable to those who smoke tobacco. This increased risk of cardiovascular conditions is a concern for public health officials and could impact the way that marijuana is regulated in the future.
The Massachusetts Department of Health has not commented on the new rule, but it is expected to have a significant impact on the state’s cannabis industry. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how this new rule affects the way that marijuana is consumed and regulated in the state.
