Nevada draws its first 40 cannabis consumption lounges

Nevada's cannabis regulatory authorities announced on Wednesday the recipients of the state's first 40 cannabis consumption lounge licenses.

Twenty of them were awarded by lottery to new independent businesses, half of which went to social equity applicants. The other 20 are intended for existing cannabis retailers that will open social consumption lounges.

The Cannabis Compliance Board The state-run (CCB) announced the drawing last week, specifying that it would hold «two drawings using a random number generator.» Regulators say they expect the first showrooms to open in the «first half of 2023.».

The CCB stated earlier this month that it had received about 100 requests for this new type of license over a 10-day period in October.

Below is the list of 40 prospective license holders for cannabis consumption lounges.

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These developments come more than a year after Governor Steve Sisolak signed a bill to legalize consumption lounges.

Current cannabis sellers may apply for a separate license category to include lounges to their existing activities.

The CCB approved the Regulations Governing Places Where Cannabis Is Consumed During the Summer. The law could also authorize companies that combine the cannabis and yoga, serve cannabis-infused foods, offer THC-assisted therapeutic massages, or incorporate cannabis in other ways.

The governor seems, on the face of it, to be fairly satisfied with the law on cannabis lounges in Nevada, writing : «The idea isn’t new, but no one does it the way we do in Nevada.».

«While most consumer trade shows in other states do not offer food, drinks, or other entertainment options,» he added, «Nevada’s lounges will be a one-stop entertainment destination to create jobs, grow the industry, and boost our economy.»

According to the rules approved by the board, consumption must be hidden from public view. Consumption must take place in a room separate from the sales area. Single-use or ready-to-consume cannabis products may not be taken off the premises. And businesses must provide water free of charge to every customer.

The exhibition halls will also be reserved for cannabis. No alcohol, tobacco, or nicotine-based products may be sold there.