Cannabis Consumption Lounges: How they Differ from Dispensaries and What this Means from a Policy Perspective

• In Event: Roundtable: Cannabis Legalization - Examining the Impact of the Changing Landscape

Abstract

Despite increasing numbers of states legalizing the purchase and use of recreational cannabis, consumption remains prohibited in public spaces. Thus, consumption is reserved to private residences, limiting where many individuals can consume legally. In response, some states are passing legislation to authorize the licensing of on-site cannabis consumption lounges offering consumers equitable access to smoke, vape or otherwise consume cannabis. While there has been an increasing amount of research related to dispensaries, this research cannot be generalized to “lounges” due to the unique differences in their purpose (i.e. purchase cannabis product on site versus imbibing cannabis product on site). Although the creation of consumption establishments may achieve their goal of enhancing users' experiences and help to create a sense of community, it is imperative to examine the potential unintended consequences of these establishments and to identify and mitigate any potential negative implications. We will address some of these issues in our discussion and their potential implications

Author

• Jay Szkola, Rowan University