More than a dozen states have said that marijuana and the dispensaries that provide it are essential services in a quarantine. Just like health services, grocery stores, pharmacies, and hospitals, many states are considering marijuana an essential product. California went so far to say in their shelter in place declaration that dispensaries are critical infrastructure along with hospitals.
Marijuana Sales are Skyrocketing
Since a stay-at-home order was released in the San Francisco Bay Area, marijuana sales soared more than 150 percent over a year ago for the same timeframe. According to Liz Connors, director of analytics at Headset, a cannabis market research firm, sales of edibles rose to rates typically seen only during April 20, the unofficial annual marijuana appreciation holiday.
Connors noted that edible products might be popular because “it’s probably the best way to get high without even touching your face.” Besides California, marijuana sales in several states, including Colorado, Washington, and Pennsylvania, have risen dramatically.
In several states, cannabis companies are cautious to adhere to federal government-defined guidelines to ensure that they are considered necessary and can remain available. Regulators in Nevada have allowed retail stores and dispensaries to operate so long as they prevent crowds from forming, so the stores have urged customers to order online or over the phone. Illinois prohibited selling of recreational marijuana.
