Marijuana enthusiasts in the state of Massachusetts will be happy to learn that the state will be opening up its recreational cannabis stores in a week.
Adult-use marijuana retail stores in the state had been shut down for two months in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Gov. Charlie Baker had ordered all “nonessential” businesses, including adult-use retailers, to close March 24th, in an order that was upheld in court.
Starting on May 25th, they will re-open and start to serve customers again. Sales however will be limited to online or telephone orders and curbside pickup.
Massachusetts state officials announced the planned resumption of recreational sales on Monday, according to The Boston Globe.
New medical marijuana registration numbers have surged by 245% since the adult-use store closures.
Re-opening the adult-use pot shops is part of a four phase plan according to the Globe. Opening is the first phase and each phase likely will go a minimum of three weeks but could be extended depending on how the coronavirus pandemic plays out.
Before a business can reopen, it must complete a COVID-19 Control Plan and be able to present the document during an inspection.
Businesses that reopen in the first phase must also require workers to wear masks, to maintain social distancing, sanitize areas that are frequently touched, and create a plan for staff members who contract the virus.
