Soon coffeeshops in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts is one of the last American states to have legalized cannabis last November. It could also be the first to authorize on-site shopping and consumption facilities.

This week, the Cannabis Control Commission unanimously approved cannabis establishments selling cannabis for consumption on the premises, like the Amsterdam coffeeshops.

Alaska has also raised the possibility of having cannabistros. And although the proposal has been studied several times by local authorities, the most recent commission, held at the end of November, was unable to reach a decision. once again delayed its decision.

Colorado, Denver has adopted a from Bring Your Own Weed in certain locations. Customers are authorized to consume cannabis by vaporization or ingestion. Combustion can take place outdoors in a designated area.

«Massachusetts residents need a place where they can legally consume cannabis that isn't their home, because not everyone consumes in their home.» explains Shaleen Title, who initiated the amendment. «This allows people to consume cannabis products in an authorized and safe establishment, with qualified personnel».

Now that the Commission has approved the proposal to have consumption venues, it still has to vote on it at the end of next week, and then publish it before the end of the year. The final legal adjustments will be made in March 2018, for an expected opening of the first coffeeshops in July 2018.

A number of points remain to be clarified, including whether clubs will allow combustion (joints), or only vaporization, dabs or the consumption of cannabis-infused foods, the famous edibles. However, customers will certainly not be allowed to bring their own weed, but will have to buy it on site. No alcohol will be sold on site.

In addition to this special authorization for businesses that sell cannabis, the state will offer «mixed-use» licenses for businesses that are not cannabis-based. For example, a spa or yoga class that would like to use cannabis during massage/relaxation sessions. One could even imagine cinemas allowing consumption during the showing of a film!