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How to Get a Cannabis Job in Colorado

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If you want to work in marijuana retail sales in the first state to legalize recreational pot, it’s easy. But there’s an application process, complete with various forms and fees. And you must follow and obey all Colorado marijuana laws.

Ask yourself, “Do I really want a cannabis job?”

Before entering the cannabis industry, understand it’s highly, highly regulated. The state and city governments are pretty serious about these regulations and rules – and trust me, there’s a lot of them, and they change all the time. As a badged employee, you must memorize and understand these rules. Failure to comply with the rules can lead to an audit or MED investigation. These investigations can cost a business anywhere from thousands to millions of dollars, so be prepared to operate under a tight ship.

Second, consider the social ramifications. There’s still a lot of stigma around cannabis, and your previous or current job selling marijuana could affect your ability to find work elsewhere. This isn’t a guarantee, but it is something to consider.

Types of Cannabis Jobs in Colorado

budtender weighing out cannabis

If you are 100% positive you want a job in the cannabis industry, here is a list of some jobs you could apply for after you get your MED license.

– Cannabis Trimmer
– Cannabis Harvest and Cultivation Assistant
– Dispensary Budtender
– Cannabis Packager
– Horticulturist
– Sales Representative
– Dispensary Manager / Assistant Manager

If you’re actively looking for a cannabis job be sure to check out local cannabis job listings on ZipRecruiter and Indeed.

Colorado Cannabis Job Qualifications

Because this industry is so carefully watched, only a handful of people qualify to work in the industry. To quality, you must:

– You must be 21+
– You are a Colorado resident and have a drivers license or ID
– Have a relatively clean criminal record, which means no felony convictions in the past five years.
– Owe no outstanding differences to the IRS or to the Colorado Department of Revenue.
– Not be affiliated with organized crime. You’ll be required to provide photos of any tattoos on your body.
– Not be a licensed physician.
– Not be a member of law enforcement.
– You must have your fingerprints taken prior to submitting your application

Apply for MED License

man filling out application

As with any other application process, the first step to getting a cannabis job in Colorado is filling out the application.

There used to be two different types of licenses to apply for; one for “Key Employees” and one for “Support Employees”. This rule changed on January 1, 2020. Anyone who seeks to become an employer of a cannabis enterprise, such as a budtender or dispensary employee, needs to fill out this Employee License Application. The fee is $100 for first-timers and $75 for renewals.

You’ll need to prove that you’re a Colorado resident (which requires a Colorado driver’s license). You can apply without a Social Security Number, but if you don’t have one, you’ll need to fill out a sworn affidavit stating you don’t have a Social Security Number.

The Colorado Department of Revenue provides numerous resources to help you through the application process. For MED Licensing Information click here and for MED Applications and Forms click here. You’ll find a number of different forms and applications depending on what you’d like to apply for, i.e., delivery permit, employee license or hospitality marijuana business just to name a few.

Important note about getting your fingerprints for the MED license.

The Colorado Government says:
“Applicants may have fingerprints taken using a third-party vendor. When submitting your application, please include a copy of your receipt showing you completed your fingerprints by visiting one of the following providers.

– IdentoGo (Service Code: 25YGBJ)
– Colorado Fingerprinting (CBI Unique ID: 9500MAJI)​
– Please see the MED Third-Party Fingerprint Providers page for more information.”

Here are some rules to follow when filling out your application:

1. Stick to black or blue ink, and your writing should be one color from start to finish. In other words, don’t do half of it in blue ink then switch to black ink for the last half.

2. Do not cross out any information you’ve written. You cannot white-out anything, either. If you mess up, you need to start over from scratch.

3. The form must be notarized by a state-licensed notary. Wait until you’ve met with the notary before signing the forms.

4. Whatever you do, tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth on your application. Leaving out required information may result in an automatic and permanent disqualification. It’s better to provide all information upfront compared to facing denial and having to go through an appeal process.

Important Note: If you are renewing your license, you must fill out the renewal application before it expires or you’ll have to go through the entire employee license application from the beginning.

Visit a MED Office to Apply

government building

You’ll need to set aside a day to make a trip to one of the state’s MED offices. It is recommended that you email or call them to make sure they are accepting walk-ins, only doing drop-offs or if you should just mail your application in.

Lakewood Office
1707 Cole Blvd., Suite 300
Lakewood, CO 80401
Email: [email protected]

Colorado Springs Office
PO Box 15128
Colorado Springs, CO 80935
Email: [email protected]

Grand Junction Office
632 Market Street, Suite G3
Grand Junction, CO 81505
Email: [email protected]

Longmont Office
275 South Main Street, Suite 101
Longmont, CO 80501
Email: [email protected]

If they are accepting walk-ins, it is usually on a  first-come, first-served, so try to show up early. Bring all relevant forms, including your Colorado-issued driver’s license, proof of residency (a utility bill usually works), a Social Security Card, and any other documents related to your arrest history, criminal records, etc.

You must also make your application payment upon your office visit. The offices will only take cash, money orders, and personal checks.

And that’s pretty much it! If you qualify, you should find out that day. Your badge is good for two (2) years, and once you have it, you can apply to work at any licensed dispensary, retail store, MIP, or grow operation in Colorado.

Have fun, and best of luck!

What is 420 Friendly? Meaning Behind the New Vibes in America

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If your clock is stopped at 420 every second, every hour, every minute, then figuring out what sort of establishments are open to facilitating your lifestyle is an important must. After all, not all businesses are 420 friendly which puts a big premium on identifying the ones that are so that you can toke away in peace and not worry about anyone blowing your buzz.

Before examining the type of 420 friendly services available across America, let’s briefly discuss where the term 420 came from, the history behind it and why it is embedded in America Culture.

The story on the roots of 420 friendliness in America, like most things involving cannabis, is pretty hazy. However, there are some commonly believed theories that can help us understand what the term 420 means in a historical context.

Origins of 420: Where Did 420 Come From?

Origins of 420

For many years speculation on 420 origins has ranged from rumors that the number represents the police code word for cannabis, or even that there are 420 active chemicals at work in bud.

The reality of the term’s roots (at least as far as anyone can determine) is a lot simpler than that.

The most commonly believed origin of 420 story takes us to 1971 in Marion County California where five awesome dudes known in their circle as the Waldos (for the fact that they liked to blaze leaning up against a wall) had begun searching for a rumored hidden cannabis crop in a nearby town.

These brave cannabis crusaders would meet after school each day near their favorite chiefing wall at 420 to get high and then get going.

In short time, the code word for their hunt for the free bud became simply, 420. Simple right? But when you thought to yourself, “what does 420 mean?” you should have accounted for the possibility that it is based on five crafty stoners looking for free herb to smoke on.


What Does 420 Friendly Mean?

What is the meaning of 420 friendly? “420 friendly” generally means that a person, hotel or other business establishment is open to letting you smoke cannabis in peace and without consequences.

Historically, 420 friendly has meant that a business or hotel won’t call the police on you if you spark up. However, given the shaky legal status of pot in the past, the term was only as reliable as the person in charge of wherever you were staying.

That said, with the rapidly changing weed laws that are currently rocking the country the definition of what is 420 friendly is changing pretty rapidly.

Whereas before 420 friendly just meant that a hotel or business had a cool manager who was willing to turn a blind eye, there is now the possibility of finding places with actual legal policies in place to ensure that you are able to smoke undisturbed. 

Cannabis Tourism: Smoking at 420 Friendly Establishments

It is important to keep in mind that the way in which the “420 friendliness” of a hotel or business can range pretty wildly depending on where you are staying.

When it comes to the independent business operation of weed legal communities, we are in many ways in the wild wild west. While there are plenty of regulations in place indicating what an establishment can or cannot do, there is also a lot of leeway in which they are given the autonomy to choose how they do things.

In some instances, you may be able to spark up in your room, outdoors or on your balcony in peace. Other places will feature a designated smoking area designed specifically for marijuana enthusiasts to get their imbibing on.

Still, other times, the four twenty friendliness of a place of business means a whole lot more than simple tolerance. There are many places out there now that not only don’t mind weed but seem to love it, offering plenty of activities in which you can enjoy a joint as you explore a new hobby.

cannabis tourism
Image Source: Business Insider

We will talk fairly extensively about some of these exciting opportunities a little bit later on.


The phrase “420 friendly”, has become so common that you will even now see people marketing themselves with the term.


Go on any dating site or craigslist listing with the phrase “420 friendly,” and you are sure to find some results. And this is important because if you are looking for a new roommate or even a potential life partner, you are definitely going to want to make sure that they are cool, right?

You’ll also want to note that it means different things in states where pot is legal than in states where it isn’t.

While the 420 friendly hotel or business in Colorado means that you will have ample opportunity to acquire and use pot as you see fit, in Illinois, it simply means that if you aren’t extremely discreet, they won’t be the ones to call the police.

Before we transition to the next parts of this guide, do keep in mind that there is one thing that “420 friendly” does not mean. For one thing, many tobacco users may be disappointed to learn that it doesn’t mean you can smoke cigarettes or cigars, and in fact, many 420 friendly places do not allow it.

Socializing With Recreational Marijuana

In addition to just being a really excellent way to kick it, recreational marijuana has a very social component to it that can really be enhanced with 420 friendly hotspots.

recreational marijuana in america

Ways Americans are Using Marijuana to Socialize:

People have always used pot to socialize. However, with marijuana legalization popping up everywhere that you turn your head, stoners now have lots of options when it comes to herbal socializing.

The social options for legal pot vary pretty widely depending on which cannabis legal state you find yourself in.

While some states have cannabis-friendly hotels, restaurants, and lounges, other states are pretty serious about limiting your toking to the confines of your home.

Hey, there’s nothing wrong with sparking up and watching Avengers with your friends at home, right?

Reasons Americans are Choosing Cannabis Over Alcohol

You may have seen statistics about how more millennials choose pot than alcohol these days.

Why is that? While the reason to choose one substance over the other is ultimately going to be individualized, there is a wide range of reasons why people are choosing to get their smoke on.

For one thing, new science shows that moderate amounts of cannabis are a little bit better for a fully developed mind than alcohol (this information does not necessarily apply to teenagers).

It’s also just easier to bounce back from a night of smoking than it is from a night of drinking. While overindulging in marijuana is not entirely without consequences, it’s a whole lot preferable to the effects of a nasty hangover.

 

Types of 420 Friendly Vacations: Cannabis Tours, Classes and Events

We will get into the specifics of some marijuana-related activities in the next section. However, just for your own point of reference, there actually are plenty of legal options out there in cooperating communities.

Because of the restrictions of current cannabis law, you may have to be willing to go hunting for these activities but for the resourceful stoner, there are plenty of different clubs and classes that are willing to allow you to improve your experience with a little bit of primo kush.

Top-Rated Marijuana Tours:

While we won’t get into the business of recommending specific tours (you’ll have to discover one that suits your preferences on your own) we can tell you that there plenty of exciting cannabis tour opportunities out there for those willing to look for them.

Essentially cannabis tours involve party busses (or other lavish means of recreational transportation) that give the discerning stoner the opportunity to sample a 420 weed-friendly community’s best offering. This could include but is not limited to, dispensaries, grow houses, and even glass blowing demonstrations.

The best part is that the party generally starts the moment that you board the bus. Joints are distributed, and patrons enjoy a variety of different opportunities that are designed to allow them to sample pot through a range of means.

Marijuana tours are now available in most places that weed is legal, including California and Colorado.

Requirements for Joining Tours:

If you are looking to take part in these classes, tours or clubs, all you presently need is a state-issued form of identification indicating that you are twenty-one (21) years of age or older. While there are some rules limiting the extent to which out of state residents can interact with legal pot, out of towners should not have any trouble taking part in the activities listed above.

Types of Marijuana Cannabis Classes:

There are also classes available in 420 friendly communities that have taken to integrating pot into the curriculum. No, we aren’t talking about algebra.

However, if you want to free your mind up to some creativity you can take painting, cooking, or even yoga classes that are willing to let you get your smoke on. Here are some examples.

Creative and Fun Marijuana Classes:

— Puff Pass and Paint Class

— Puff Pass and Pottery Class

— Puff Pass and Pin Cushion


Educational Cannabis Classes:

— Private Cooking Classes

— Pipemaking 101

— Concentrates (Hash/Extracts) and Terpenes Tour/Class


Marijuana Business Classes

— Medical Cannabis Training

— Dispensary Technician Training

There are also private events that allow you to enjoy your marijuana experience in a more intimate setting. These opportunities include marijuana catering, which involves high quality, cannabis-infused food, weddings, which may include food, floral arrangements, and bud bars, and even business networking events.

Do note that these opportunities don’t usually come cheap. Private marijuana event coordinating professionals can cost around $100 an hour, with some wedding consultation services costing upwards of $3000 (not including the cost of the event itself).

420 Friendly Hotels, Resorts, Airbnbs and Clubs

The whole gist of this guide is just how rad it is that this stuff exists, but for the sake of emphasis, how could we not mention it again?

Since most hotels don’t have a four twenty friendly outlooks, and since sparking up used to mean the threat of legal trouble, this is certainly no small thing.

In order for 420 smokers to feel comfortable, there is a need for business owners to provide 420-friendly environments so you can smoke on in a safe and enjoyable way. Considering that these opportunities simply have not existed in the past, it is safe to say that now is a great time to be alive, isn’t it?

Now on to explore the world of 420-friendly hotels and Airbnb.

420 Friendly Hotels and Airbnbs

State law for rental properties including hotels and resorts varies on whether or not marijuana activity is legal. However, some states, like Colorado allow lodging businesses to decide for themselves whether or not they want to permit guests to toke.

Colorado 420-friendly hotels include but are certainly not limited to the Boutique Luxury 4 Star Hotel in Downtown Denver, and the All Suite Hotel. These are of course, only examples. You will need to decide for yourself where to lodge.

Bud Bars, 420 Lounges and Clubs:

Bud bars, lounges, and even 420 tours are subject to a little bit of legal ambiguity. You may recall that we mentioned earlier how up in the air public consumption is at this point.

However, there are some legal options available in Colorado open to anyone twenty-one and up.

What’s the benefit? For the social butterflies out there, there’s plenty to like. It’s a chance to get out of the house, relax in a cool and unique setting, and even meet other people that share similar interests with you.

Cannabis Clubs:

The cannabis club is a pretty new concept that allows for the public consumption of marijuana. In Colorado, this concept is particularly new, the state has just issued its first license in the past year.

The idea behind the cannabis club is that imbibers can bring their own bud to the establishment and smoke in public for a cover charge.

While there are obvious concerns regarding these institutions (like the possibility of stoned driving) they nevertheless represent an exciting social opportunity for the responsible stoner.

New Cannabis Laws Free Prisoners

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Prisoners Charged With Cannabis Offenses Are Being Released

Since California’s legalization of medical cannabis, in 1996, several states have followed suit and provided a more modern approach to dealing with cannabis.

From medical use to recreational use in 22 states and Washington D.C., you can now legally use marijuana! In many states, it has also become decriminalized, protecting minor offenders (who would have previously been prosecuted for a dime bag) from the headache of an unnecessary arrest.

As a country, overall in the past 25 years, we have come a long way in the fight for legalizing marijuana. For those of us who are free and able to partake in these new legal marijuana outlets, it is wonderful and is a time for celebration.

Some of our brothers and sisters did NOT make it to the GREEN AGE of legalization, without a detour through prison.

Across the country thousands of men and women still sit behind bars, serving out time on minor marijuana offenses. Some of them are even being SLAPPED with the label of felons. Since the changing of many laws, some of these so-called “offenders” have been able to have their sentences overturned and are being set free.

There have been many “cannabis offenders” throughout the years, go to prison and be released.

Here are a few updates on those who were imprisoned due to marijuana or are currently on their way out.

Jeff Mizanskey

One of the most talked about prisoners released after new marijuana laws were implemented, Mr. Mizanskey spent two decades in prison for a non-violent marijuana charge. He was arrested in 1996 for the intent to distribute nearly 6 pounds of marijuana. Mr. Mizanskey was charged with a life sentence with no option for parole. Although it is still illegal to distribute marijuana without proper protocol and licensing, this sentence was quite harsh even for the time. Jeff was a non-violent offender who only had two previous, minor arrests on his record, which were also non-violent. In 2015, the new Governor of Missouri, where Mizanskey was serving his time, reversed the decision of the court and allowed him to walk free.

James Tranmer

In 1993 James Tranmer was sentenced to 420 months or 35 years in prison for conspiracy to import and distribute marijuana. He has continued to promote the benefits of marijuana from behind bars and is still active in his Rastafarian based faith. James was sentenced for helping his son financially with a marijuana smuggling venture. His son also served time for the same case. He pled his case to President Obama, seeking Presidential clemency. In 2017 Tranmer received his wish and was granted clemency in President Obama’s last round of clemencies. He was released on May 19, 2017, at the age of 73 after spending 24 years in prison.

Paul Free

Paul Free was charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance in 1995. This non-violent charge that was weakly substantiated has led to a decades-long fight for freedom. Paul has been incarcerated in California trying to find a lawyer that can help him successfully overturn his charges for the past 22 years. When he was originally charged, there were multiple witnesses that stated he was not the person who distributed them marijuana, as well as having multiple pieces of evidence which place him away from the scene of the crime. Finally, in 2017 Free was given a glimmer of hope when he was granted clemency by President Obama. He is set to be released in the next few years and will be able to assimilate back into normal life with his brother down in Mexico.

Craig Frazier

In 2005 Craig Frazier was charged with conspiracy to distribute marijuana. He was sentenced to 40 years in prison for a non-violent offense. Frazier was caught in an unfair situation where he was charged, on the premises, that he had WAY more marijuana in his possession than he actually did. Even based off of the amount of marijuana he had, Frazier was charged with four times the mandatory minimum for his case. He was treated this way in the Montana court system. After 7 years in prison with a clean record, Frazier was granted clemency and released on December 18, 2016. He plans to attend college back in his home state of Montana.

Dustin Costa

Our last update on a marijuana prisoner does not end as well as the previous few. Dustin Costa is still incarcerated at the Lompoc prison in Lompoc, California. He was running a small-scale marijuana grow farm that catered exclusively to patients. Costa stuck strictly to the rules laid out in prop 215 but was still arrested. He was charged with several different marijuana offenses and will likely spend the rest of his life in prison. Costa is now 71 years old and has been in prison since 2005. Not only were his crimes non-violent, but he was also helping around 300 patients have access to the healing, medicinal qualities of marijuana at the time of his arrest. Costa is still an avid cannabis supporter and looks forward to the future when it is legalized everywhere. Although he may never see life beyond prison bars again he is grateful for the support of others through letter correspondence and continues to enjoy advocating marijuana in any way that he can.

With new laws being implemented throughout the states we can only hope for more stories the end in 100% release for non-violent cannabis charges.

The harsh, draconian laws of the past no longer need to be upheld. As marijuana becomes legalized for medical and recreational use across the country, it will at the very least lead to fewer marijuana arrests and fewer prisoners in general. Violent drug offenders should most definitely STILL be prosecuted! However, for non-violent marijuana situations, there is no need for ANYONE to serve out the rest of their life behind bars.

Prohibitions Influence On The Legal System

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It’s no secret that the US 1920’s ALCOHOL PROHIBITION did NOT work at all!

For those thirteen years, vast amounts of wealth were created illegally on the black market. The basic law of economics teaches us that where EVER there is a demand, a supply will be created.

Perhaps an even more destructive prohibition in the U.S. has that of hemp and cannabis medicine. For eighty years, cannabis prohibition has plagued the American people – a prohibition set into action based almost entirely off of lies, racism and crooked cronyism interests.

Cannabis Prohibition First Takes Hold

The Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 was one of the most manipulatively convoluted and misunderstood laws to ever hit the books. Just about everyone who has read or seen pieces of media such as Reefer Madness can now understand how absurd these claims were. The sad part is, back then – people actually believed that ‘one toke can turn youths into marijuana addicts’ and that ‘the devil’s weed, with its roots in hell, led wealthy white women to leave their husbands for black jazz musicians.’

The ringleader spinning this web of lies was a vile man by the name of Harry Anslinger. Anslinger served as the first commissioner of the U.S. Treasury Department‘s Federal Bureau of Narcotics (FBN). The FBN eventually evolved into what we now know as the DEA. He was a perhaps the most vocal and outspoken supporter of the criminalization of drugs. Without him, cannabis prohibition might never have come to pass.

Somehow, Anslinger held office for 32 years in his role as commissioner until 1962. After that, he was the U.S. Representative to the United Nations Narcotics Commission for two years. In addition to inciting racism, Anslinger told an abundance of lies to representatives of a political system that believed it. In so doing, the waters of people’s understandings of the differences between non-psychoactive hemp and cannabis medicine were so muddied; most Americans didn’t know the difference at the time. In fact, the term ‘marihuana’ was virtually invented by these government goons at this time period. Later the made-up word evolved into what most people call it today – marijuana.

Before this, the plant was mostly called hemp in the west, with some more educated people referring to it as its scientific name, cannabis. Not only did Anslinger and his cohorts prevent access to cannabis medicine, but also restricted access to hemp – which is one of the most versatile plants on the planet.

Hemp’s Historical Uses

marijuana, hemp, weed, cannabis

As you might already know, the non-psychoactive hemp plant has an abundance of uses dating back centuries. More than half of states in the U.S. currently allow the growing of hemp with a license. The Federal government passed a farm bill was 2014. This legislation allows farmers in legal states to grow industrial hemp, provided it clocks in at under 0.3% THC.

Popular Mechanics magazine called hemp a “billion dollar cash crop” back in 1938.

Ironically, this was right around the time that cannabis/ prohibition was taking hold of the country. Even though cannabis prohibition has stifled much of the potential advancements involving the versatile plant, American-grown hemp has been proving itself as a cash crop once again. Sales of hemp products reached over $500 million nationwide in 2015, reports the Boulder, Colorado-based Hemp Business Journal.

How Prohibition Influences The Legal System

washington-monument

As previously stated, the parasite of marijuana prohibition has been embedded into all Americans for 80 years now. As destructive as it was back then, it’s arguably even worse now. According to the ACLU, marijuana arrests make up more than half of all drug arrests in the United States. Police made 8.2 million marijuana arrests between 2001 and 2010. Of those arrests, 88% were for simple possession – not for selling it, or for property damage, or hurting anyone else.

The War on Drugs was initially put into place by President Nixon, and Regan amped it up with the “Just Say No” campaigns of the 1980’s. Along with a plethora of propaganda and fear mongering delivered to young children through the D.A.R.E. campaign, the drug war has needlessly claimed thousands of lives of otherwise law-abiding citizens that most Americans agree should be offered treatment instead of punishment for drug use if they weren’t hurting anyone else. The war on drugs has cost the American taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars and has effectively taken law enforcement attention away from real crimes with real victims.

Thankfully, there are many sensible officers, current and former, who are against the war on drugs because they see how it takes away their resources that would otherwise be focused on real crimes. One of such groups is Law Enforcement Action Partnership (LEAP), formerly known as Law Enforcement Against Prohibition. To say we need more sensible, compassionate, and educated officers like these who understand the vast harms brought on by drug prohibition and advocate an end to its stranglehold on the American people.

Despite the fact that sixty percent of Americans now favor the end of cannabis prohibition, President Trump’s new drug czar Jeff Sessions has vowed to crack down on drug users, stating, “Good people don’t smoke marijuana.” Sessions even made the outright statement that there is “no evidence of medical uses for marijuana,” which is a bold-faced lie. Does Sessions actually believe these ridiculous statements, or is he pandering to the forty percent of Americans who somehow favor the continued prohibition on cannabis and the war on drugs? You be the judge.

Who Benefits From the Continued Prohibition of Cannabis?

With all of the overwhelming evidence of the destructive nature of cannabis prohibition and the war on drugs, what is taking so long to end it? Many people have made speculation and will continue to do so. Some people think it’s the pharmaceutical industry whose corporations stand to lose millions from the outright legalization of medical cannabis. Others point to for-profit private prisons making a fortune on jailing weed smokers. With so many people being arrested for marijuana possession and being pushed through the legal system by essentially being forced into plea deals that involve treatment as terms of probation, drug counseling services also stand to lose out when cannabis prohibition finally ends. Then there are also the DEA and police unions who oppose legalization because they understand how much money is being drained from arrestees in the form of fines, court costs, and legal fees.

While cannabis prohibition and the war on drugs is still very much entrenched in the American culture and the legal system, we have seen some great strides over the past few years – and we’ve come a long way. Hopefully, the senseless prohibition of cannabis won’t last too much longer, as it has a negative impact on the U.S. in so many ways.

How To Spot A Potsquatch? Hazard Or Hero?

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BREAKING NEWS

Potsquatch sighting are on the rise!

First spotted, by 22News’ team, in front of PotCo, in Springfield Massachusetts.

While the news team was doing a live weather broadcast, they accidentally filmed the legendary Potsquatch.

Little did they know who or what this creature is, could have been or was capable of.

All we knew is that it HAD to be a “peaceful” beast because there have ZERO reports of death, due to consumption of Potsquatch related activities.

What is this beautiful beast?

What is he doing? Where did he come from?

Does the Potsquatch have a purpose, does he have dreams, hopes or ambitions?

So many questions and so little answers, at this time.

Our preliminary reports suggest the Potsquatch has been around since caveman times.

Some of our scientific advisers believe there were two evolutions of the human species, in the early days.

One evolution created modern day humans (homosapien & parasitical elite class members), who are destroying our earth.

The second evolution, manifested the human-cannabis-plant hybrid, who require massive amounts of pot to sustain normal life functions.

Sadly the cannabis-man-hybrids of humanity had to go underground, for a time, due to good people being deceived, corrupted and controlled by cash and the legal system.

This Canna-Man “Potsquatch” appears to be the TOTAL opposite, of the destructive evolution, of the human condition.

It appears as though the Potsquatch has begun reaching out to humanity, in hope of helping the earth heal, from the destruction already in progress.

We feel as though the Potsquatch has come, to SAVE us, just in the nick of time, while we are on the brink of total destruction.

With the war machine continually bullying its way into existence, there no telling just how long we humans have to live, until war destroys us all.

Thankfully we have a hero in our midst who will bring back balance to reality.

Further reports are revealing the Potsquatch tends to hang out around PotCo, in Springfield Massachusetts.

We hear the Potsquatch is in contact with PotCo owner Nathan Marrin & David Mech.

It seems as though the Potsquatch has taken a liking to PotCo’s work and what goes on in his corner of the world.

What is it that Nathan, David and his team are doing that attracts a Potsquatch to their operations?

Turns out, PotCo and their crew are a bunch of EXTREMELY hard working professional, who are on the course to helping humanity heal and thrive, with cannabis.

PotCo has set their sails that will lead humanity to a BRIGHT future of healthcare.

What make PotCo unique is in how they have developed a welcoming and vibrant community of patients, like you, on the front lines of restoring cannabis to its full glory.

They are not only a garden supply store.

PotCo is your one stop shop for all your cannabinoid products and Health Care Clinical needs.

With their revolutionary, Clinic In The Clouds, software system, the next level of medicine has arrived.

Once you plug into their community you will have real time access that will connect you, the patient, to your health care provider.

Live chat, instant update, and real time monitoring.

It is with these unique ideas that will continue to elevate, and heal, humanity to the levels of life and love, that we are originally meant to “be” in.

Have you seen a POTsquatch in your neighborhood?

What is this majestic creature that has gone undiscovered for thousands upon thousands of years?

What has antiquity been hiding from us?

What have the ancients been trying to tell us?

Is THIS the “mythical” creature we’ve all been looking for?

Why is he, just now, starting to show his face more publicly?

If you have seen a Potsquatch, know that they are not dangerous and are here to help us humans grow.

The Potsquatch species are here with the intention of helping humanity heal from the destruction that the parasitical elite class are causing, plotting and planning.

Feel safe knowing real life HEROs have sprung to life and are proactively ready to help.

All you have to do is ask and you will be tended to.

How to Get a Cannabis Job in Oregon

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What it Takes to Work in Cannabis in Oregon

Recreational Cannabis Workers must now obtain a “Marijuana Worker Permit”

Currently, Oregon has two legal cannabis markets; recreational and medical. While the recreational market is quickly becoming vastly larger there, working in a recreationally licensed business requires a “Marijuana Worker Permit” issued by the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC). To obtain a permit, workers must study, take an exam, pass a background check and once passed, pay a $100.00 fee. Working at a medical business, those regulated by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), existing under Oregon’s nearly 20 year old medical marijuana program (OMMP) doesn’t require a permit, but some employers may complete a background check, and some may insist on hiring permit-holding workers only. In Oregon, state law prohibits employers from checking an applicant’s credit history.

Criteria

To apply for an OLCC marijuana worker permit, applicants must be 21 years of age or older and head to the Marijuana Worker Permit page on the OLCC’s website to register, verify identity, study for the exam, take the online exam, pass the application process, hear from the OLCC, then pay, print the permit, and look for work. An OLCC marijuana worker permit is valid for five years before it needs to be renewed. Applicants may be disqualified for any number of reasons. These are listed under the “Marijuana Worker Permit Denial Criteria” section (page 62) among the 89 pages of rules outlined in the OLCC’s General Requirements Applicable To All Marijuana Licensees. Various prior felony convictions are typically cause for denial, although some marijuana offences are accepted. Other prerequisites and intricacies are listed in the rules.

Employees of marijuana producers (growers, etc.), processors (extract makers, edible makers, etc.), wholesalers (distributors), or retailers (dispensaries, etc.) must obtain a permit to work. This includes the coveted position of budtender among Oregon’s growing number of recreational dispensaries. Lab employees and research certificate employees are exempt from the permit process.

Employees may lose their permits for misconduct. The online exam and study guide trains permit holders on the various rules regarding work conduct, like recognizing visibly intoxicated customers and denying them service, not being intoxicated on the job, learning to correctly use the state’s Cannabis Tracking System (CTS), and more. Conduct infractions could cause penalties and fines for both the employer and employee, including revocation of their worker permit. More information on this can be found in the study guide.

In Oregon, the OLCC also oversees regulated alcohol sales and a similar permitting process applies to workers serving alcohol in bars, restaurants and event venues with liquor licenses. Currently, under Oregon law, licensed businesses can not sell or serve alcohol and cannabis under the same business license. While recreational cannabis is open to consumers 21 or older, public consumption of cannabis remains illegal in Oregon.

People age 21 or older looking to obtain a Marijuana Worker Permit in Oregon may head to the OLCC website to register and apply.

How to Get a Cannabis Job in Washington State

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What it takes to work in Cannabis in Washington State

Recreational Cannabis Workers should come prepared with retail sales experience and a knowledge of cannabis

Currently, Washington has two legal cannabis markets; recreational and medical. The medical market in Washington State is slowly phasing out and the recreational market is actually expanding at the moment. The state sets the number of retail cannabis business licenses issued, that number has recently increased from 334 retail dispensaries to 556 across the state.

Criteria

To work as a budtender in Washington, workers must be 21 years or older and apply for the job directly to the hiring business. At this time, no permit is required. Individual hiring processes depend on the hiring business. Some employers may require a criminal background check, however prior marijuana convictions are typically exempted by employers. Retail dispensaries may favor candidates possessing a knowledge of Washington’s medical marijuana program processes. The medical program is overseen by the Washington State Department of Health and requires medical facility customer liaisons to obtain a Medical Marijuana Certified Consultant certification.

In Washington state, it is against the rules to speak of cannabis’ therapeutic benefits at a dispensary, so other knowledge like growing practices and a deep understanding of the shops various vendors is an excellent start. Recreational shops see a lot of “newcomer” customers looking for knowledge to guide their first time buying legal weed, and the Medical Marijuana Certified Consultant certification process includes a 20 hour training program that teaches workers what they can and cannot do when selling retail marijuana.

This certification is not a prerequisite for working in recreational cannabis in the state, only at medical shops, but the certificate can be very helpful in getting hired at a retail dispensary.

Positions at retail pot shops in Washington State include: budtenders, shop key holders, shift managers, greeters, and more. Applicants must be at least 21 years old. Washington State recreational cannabis retailers see a lot of business and these jobs are coveted, so applicants should be prompt and professional and never show up to work intoxicated.

Retailers typically prohibit consumption during the shift, and the law prohibits smoking cannabis on premises or in any public place or space. Expect to handle lots of cash and be good at counting and making change. Budtending shifts can be high paced, so anticipate lots of time on your feet, and repetition explaining various methods of consumption and the differences between various forms of cannabis…to customer after customer, for hours on end.

Tips

A knowledge of computers and POS systems is helpful. Bringing upbeat vibes and a good spirit to the interview and your daily job is certain to help get a foot in the door. High volume customer service, with a smile, is the name of the game.

Currently, under Washington law, licensed businesses can not sell or serve alcohol and cannabis under the same business license. While recreational cannabis is open to consumers 21 or older, public consumption of cannabis remains illegal in Washington.

People age 21 or older looking to work in Washington should check out Craigslist and search the job listings for “cannabis” to explore a number of opportunities in their desired city or town: https://seattle.craigslist.org/search

States That Legalized Recreational Cannabis in 2016

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Cannabis Legalized in California, Nevada, Massachusetts and Maine!

Here’s how and when you can use recreational cannabis in these four states.

In the 2016 election cycle, four more states legalized recreational cannabis. California, Nevada, Massachusetts and Maine now join the ranks of legal cannabis in the United States. With recreational laws already passed in Alaska, Washington, Colorado, and Oregon, and dozens of states providing medical marijuana programs, over half the country now has some form of cannabis reform in place. To everyone’s amazement, prohibition is crumbling right before our very eyes.

Typically, the way it works in recently-legalized recreational states is, until the state’s recreational cannabis program gets fully underway, one must obtain cannabis through the state’s pre-existing medical cannabis program, or privately. Retail recreational licensing and regulatory processes usually take months, even years to implement. So, freely purchasing cannabis at a retail shop is generally delayed until each state gets organized.

Because of this, many states eventually roll out an “early sales” program to allow existing medical dispensaries to sell limited cannabis products to new recreational users. This allows locals and visitors to purchase cannabis through registered medical dispensaries, instead of the black market, during the time it takes for the state’s retail recreational cannabis sales to take full effect.

As recreational cannabis lingo goes, as states first legalize recreational cannabis use, the government is most concerned with how you obtain your cannabis and how much any one person can possess, or how much a single residence can contain. Generally, as long as everyone stays within the limits, people can gift cannabis to each other so long as no money or financial consideration is negotiated or exchanged.

Here’s a rundown of the new initiatives passed in each state, how they differ, how to obtain cannabis in each state, and when exactly certain aspects take effect.

California

California’s recreational cannabis program is now known as the “Adult Use of Marijuana Act” or AUMA. Effective immediately, statewide, Californians 21 and older can now possess up to one ounce of dry cannabis or eight grams of concentrate, and cultivate up to six plants per residence for personal use. At this time, no distinction has been made as to how these limits apply to cannabis edibles.

AUMA will be in full effect on January 1st 2018, when the first recreational licenses will be issued to retail businesses. Until then, people will have to source their cannabis through California’s medical marijuana program, or privately.

California has the oldest and most lenient medical marijuana program in the country. It’s quite easy to obtain a medical marijuana card in California by visiting one of the states many medical marijuana doctors. The process can even be completed online in a matter of minutes and generally costs less than a hundred dollars. Even so, state initiatives will likely institute an early sales program allowing existing medical dispensaries to sell to recreational customers long before January 2018.

Although it’s written that the current personal possession limit of cannabis concentrates is eight grams, the legislation later imposes a penalty for possessing more than four grams. This discrepancy will likely be amended in further hearings.

AUMA legislation also provides the ability to rewrite criminal penalty legalese to reduce most common cannabis felonies to misdemeanors. It will also allow prior offenders to petition for a reduction in their charges.

At this time public consumption by both smoking and ingesting cannabis remains illegal in California and must take place on private property. Although the AUMA will eventually allow for licensed on-site consumption.

Nevada

Nevada’s new recreational cannabis laws allow adults 21 and older to possess up to one ounce of cannabis flower or one-eighth ounce of cannabis concentrate, and cultivate up to six plants per person, twelve plants total per residence, for personal use. This begins January 1st 2017.

Licensed recreational retailers aren’t expected to come online until sometime in 2018, but the taxation department is expected to begin issuing temporary licenses to existing medical marijuana dispensaries for early sales by the summer of 2017. Until then, people will have to source their cannabis through Nevada’s medical marijuana program, or privately

Nevada’s medical marijuana program began in 2000, but it took until July 2015 for the first dispensary to open. There is no age limit placed on obtaining a medical marijuana card in Nevada, although the process is lengthy and costs several hundred dollars to complete. The program is open only to Nevada residents and culminates in a background check by the DMV.

Nevada has medical marijuana reciprocity for patients who hold a medical marijuana card from another state, but the issuing state’s medical marijuana program must require a doctor’s recommendation and have a searchable centralized database for patient verification. If your out-of-state medical marijuana permit holds-up to Nevada standards, you can easily purchase medical cannabis at existing dispensaries.

Under the new Nevada rules, local governments are not allowed to ban recreational cannabis outright, but will be able to create distinct zoning rules for local cannabis businesses.

Public consumption remains illegal and must take place on private property.

Massachusetts

Effective December 15th 2016, Massachusetts’ new recreational cannabis law allows adults 21 and older to possess one ounce of cannabis in public and up to 10 ounces of cannabis at home. Residents can cultivate up to six plants per person and twelve plants per residence. The first recreational cannabis retail licenses will take effect on January 1st 2018. Until then, cannabis must be obtained privately or through the state’s medical marijuana program.

Massachusetts’ medical marijuana program is still young and currently there are only a small number of medical dispensaries licensed to operate across the state. Only residents with a doctor’s recommendation may apply for a medical card. Residents with qualifying conditions can often complete the process within a few weeks or months for several hundred dollars.

Public consumption remains illegal and must take place on private property. However, the new initiative is set up to provision for cafes and other public consumption businesses in the future.

Maine

Maine’s recreational cannabis initiative was approved according to the first count of election results, but opponents are likely seeking a recount. The new legalization rules will take effect 30 days after Maine’s governor proclaims the official results.

Maine’s bill allows the possession, use, and transfer without monetary compensation, of two and a half ounces of cannabis, including concentrates, by adults 21 years of age or older. Adults may also cultivate six mature flowering cannabis plants per person and possess all the cannabis produced by those plants. Cultivation can take place at a person’s residence or another designated residence so long as the plants are out of sight of the public and properly labelled. The law also allows for the possession of 12 immature “starter” cannabis plants and unlimited seedlings.

Public consumption remains illegal wherever tobacco consumption is currently prohibited in the state. This means cannabis consumption must take place in non-public spaces or at a private residence.

Maine’s new law will allow the licensing of retail cannabis businesses. It also provides for the licensure of retail marijuana social clubs that will sell retail cannabis plus allow consumption onsite. Once passed, the state has a nine month window to develop rules and regulations governing retail cannabis operations.

Until retail recreational sales begin, one must either obtain cannabis through the state’s medical marijuana program or privately. Obtaining a medical marijuana recommendation in Maine is relatively easy. Assuming one has a Maine ID, one can visit a state certified medical marijuana doctor or clinic. Once a recommendation is given, the patient chooses a dispensary and an application is submitted to the Maine Department of Health and Human Service for approval. The process can take approximately 30 days to a few months and typically costs several hundred dollars.

Maine has medical marijuana reciprocity with states that issue medical marijuana cards, although patients must also obtain a recommendation in Maine to be permitted to purchase cannabis at local medical dispensaries. Out of state medical marijuana cards only provide use and possession protections and do not enable cardholders to purchase cannabis at Maine medical marijuana dispensaries. Under Maine law, out of state cardholders must establish residency and obtain a Maine Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP) card through the process listed above.

Is My Religion Okay with Cannabis?

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If you subscribe to a particular religion, whether Abrahamic or otherwise, you may have questioned whether cannabis use is acceptable or offensive. You may have even asked if it was – gasp – sinful.

Before we delve into this, I should stress that any person’s religious beliefs are their own. Their relationship to their god, gods, or higher principles is between them, their community, and their deity. Spiritual leaders can provide guidance here, but not every devoted soul blindly follows their leaders.

In the end, it really boils down to what you believe. What follows, then, isn’t to tell you what to believe, but rather to highlight that the divide between cannabis and religion isn’t so clear cut. In many cases, religion and cannabis go hand-in-hand.

In the Beginning

Cannabis wasn’t always prohibited. In fact, for the vast majority of human history, cannabis was mainstream. It was an essential component of religious rituals, iconographies, mythologies, and even pharmacopeias. For thousands of years, it was treated as any other agricultural crop and as a medicinal herb. There’ve been blips here and there where cannabis use or cultivation was restricted – and sometimes temporarily banned – but people always came back around to it.

Judaism

Cannabis and Religion

Worldwide adherents: 13 million

Ah, Judaism, the root of the Abrahamic religions (which includes Christianity and Islam). The Torah is one of the most important books in world history, as it not only acts as the central tome of Judaism, but it also composes half of the Christian Bible (aka “The Old Testament”) and is considered a sacred text among Muslims.

So what does the Jewish faith say about cannabis use?

The Torah makes a broad reference to all “seed-bearing herbs” in Genesis. God gave all of these “seed-bearing” and “fruit bearing” plants for humans to use. Cannabis is an herb that bears seeds. The Lord Himself said we can use these plants as food. Clear-cut case, yeah?

Nope.

Many rabbis, from today to years past, have stated that cannabis use is banned under Judaism. These reasons range from protecting the body from harm to preserving the intellect, and it’s that last one that has a particular punch. Jewish people are supposed to keep a clear mind when they’re studying the Torah, which means no intoxicants of any kind. But the issue gets complicated when we’re discussing, say, pharmaceutical drugs, which can intoxicate the patient while simultaneously treating some medical problem. Medical use of intoxicants is generally okay under the more restrictive interpretations of Judaism.

You may have heard about kannah bosem, too. Kannah bosem was used to infuse oils that could anoint followers or heal the sick. Sound familiar? The verdict is still out on that one, but one popular theory is that the Torah’s reference to kannah bosem is none other than cannabis.

But don’t get too excited about that kannah bosem thing. Other scholars have proposed alternative herbs to cannabis for that one, such as calamus.

In modern times, the nation of Israel – the official Jewish state – has a government-sanctioned medical cannabis program, considered the most advanced in the world. Israel’s government is miles ahead of most others: their reserve soldiers are allowed to use cannabis to control symptoms of PTSD. Additionally, much of the research we have regarding medical cannabis comes from none other than Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, the discoverer of THC. Mechoulam does his research at the University of Tel Aviv.

And last but not least, there is such a thing as kosher cannabis. This cannabis is cultivated and packaged according to kosher principles. That kosher weed even exists tells us there’s Jewish folks smoking up.

Christianity

Cannabis and Religion

Worldwide adherents: 2 billion

Christianity evolved from Judaic traditions. As such, half of Christianity’s Holy Bible, as noted earlier, comes directly from the Torah. The last half, which is all about Jesus, is specific to Christianity.

Alas, Christ said nothing about cannabis use. Neither did his apostles. Like the Torah, we have some broad references to herbs and salves, but nothing specific to cannabis. (Though Paul did say Christians should abstain from eating meat and drinking wine, so… there’s that.) And with the kanneh bosem thing, there’s some scholars who believe Christ’s anointing oil was made with none other than good ol’ weed juice.

Today, some of the most vocal opponents against cannabis use are conservative Christian leaders. They may cite the verse where one should “treat their body as a temple,” but this assumes cannabis is harmful to our health. As Americans become more educated on cannabis’s health benefits, and as more of us let go of old prohibitionist propaganda, that may change.

On the flip side, there’s plenty of Christians who’re just fine with cannabis, too. Some Christian churches respect its use, and one group of Catholic nuns have devoted themselves to cultivating medical cannabis. The Rastafarians, a Jamaican off-shoot of Christianity, considers marijuana a holy sacrament.

Islam

Cannabis and Religion

Worldwide adherents: 2.2 billion

The Sufi sect brought hemp and cannabis to the Middle East back in the 8th century. Sufis believed cannabis could elevate the senses and the spirit, and they’re credited with starting Islam’s pot culture. Throughout the so-called “medieval ages,” European nobles often imported Arab doctors, which were considered the best in the world. And those Arab doctors often employed cannabis and hemp medicines to their patients.

Like Judaism and Israel, we can get some idea of Islam’s positions regarding cannabis from their governments.

Take Lebanon. Lebanon is a tiny country nestled between Syria and Israel. They have a fairly unique constitution, too: one of their nation’s leaders must be a Muslim, and another must be a Christian. This was done to minimize religious conflict in the country.

Lebanon is also world famous for its “Lebanon Red” hashish. In fact, before Colorado became the cannabis capital of the world, Lebanon held that title. Not the Netherlands. Not Uruguay. But Lebanon.

However, Lebanon stands as one of the most westernized, progressive nations in the Middle East. Other Islamic countries won’t think twice about imprisoning someone for cannabis. Saudi Arabia’s been known to execute hash dealers. Egypt has vacillated back-and-forth between extreme prohibition and apathetic acceptance.

But what does the Quran actually say about toking?

Surprise: it says nothing in particular. However, based on certain verses in the Quran, as well as the hadiths (sayings attributed to Mohammed), the official stance is that Islam bans the use of all intoxicants, including cannabis.

However….

Medical use of an intoxicant is permitted, so long as it’s only for medical use.

Hinduism

Cannabis and Religion

Worldwide adherents: 1 billion

Let me start this one by saying Hinduism is one of the few surviving religions that not only started the whole “using cannabis in religion” thing – they’re still doing it.

In India, the home of Hinduism, there’s this drink called bhang. It’s a mixture of heat-activated hash mixed in with milk, spices, and sugar. You can only buy bhang in specially licensed stores, but it’s totally legal, and even kids are allowed to drink it. That’s because bhang is a religious item necessary for certain ceremonies and celebrations.

Hinduism has many gods (who are really part of one unifying principle), but the one god most closely associated with cannabis is Shiva/Kali. Those bhang rituals are Shiva’s. But Hindus don’t have to just drink bhang; they can smoke or eat ganja and charas, too.

Technically, Hindus are supposed to consume cannabis only for medical or spiritual reasons, but the line between “recreational use” and “spiritual use” is pretty fuzzy when one is always supposed to be meditating on one’s own existence.

There’s been some backlash against cannabis in India from conservative and liberal Hindus alike, but most of this backlash stems from political conflicts or misunderstandings of cannabis’s (exaggerated) dangers.

Buddhism

Cannabis and Religion

Worldwide adherents: 500 million

Buddhism was born in India. Then it spread throughout Asia. It influenced European and American philosophers, from Schopenhauer and Nietzsche, to Emerson and Thoreau. Today, it’s one of the fastest growing religions in the United States.

But are Buddhists okay with cannabis?

There’s nothing in any of the Buddhist scriptures, sutras, or other texts that specifically bans cannabis. Historical records show Tibetan Buddhists used cannabis (and possibly Datura) in their rituals. There are, however, plenty of warnings against intoxicants, because intoxication indulges the ego, and that will always lead to suffering.

However, Buddhism also stresses moderation. Being too restrictive of one’s habits to the point of asceticism is its own version of ego indulgence, and Buddha wasn’t about that, either. Because of this, some Buddhists will advise against cannabis use because it can be easy to overindulge. But other Buddhists view cannabis not only as a healing plant, but also as an aid for meditation.

As the saying goes: “All good things in moderation.”

Baha’i

Cannabis and Religion

Worldwide adherents: 100,000

Baha’i is a relatively new kid on the block. It started in the 1800s in Persia, a place where all of the world’s major religions were present and had some influence on daily life. Baha’i kind of took the best parts of these religions and combined them into a new way of revering God.

Like many of the other religions listed here, the Baha’i faith bans all intoxicants. That even includes alcohol and tobacco. Intoxicating substances are only permitted for medical use.

But while we’re on this topic of “medical use,” I feel it’s important to mention this….

Where’s the Line Between Recreational and Medical Use?

Stress is one of the major indicators of chronic medical problems. Obesity, heart disease, cancer, arthritis – these are just a few of the biggest health culprits that are caused by constant, chronic stress.

I’m not a doctor, so this most certainly is not a medical prescription. But if responsible cannabis use isn’t dangerous for the average person, then moderate use to relieve stress can most certainly be thought of as medical use.

The science tells us that cannabis can alleviate anxiety and depression. Cannabis can curb aggression. It can also instill a mild sense of euphoria. All of these traits of cannabis are the same ones we see in many psychiatric pharmaceuticals, but with none of the more adverse effects (severe addiction, serotonin/dopamine syndromes, etc.).

Now, I’m not suggesting that we argue “all use is medical” as a way to sidestep religious bans. But casual cannabis use can provide some incredible quality of life to people who aren’t finding relief in just a good diet and exercise. Sometimes we need one good puff of our favorite strain to unwind from a stressful day.

Contrast and Compare – Dispensary Process in Legalized States

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Editor’s note: Have you ever wondered how the states differ in dispensary visits? This blog is a “how to” that describes the dispensary process in legalized states. We will update this list as more states legalize recreational marijuana.

COLORADO

Inspection

Every dispensary has its own company policy regarding workers or customers handling the product. Some dispensaries allow you to inspect the buds you’re shopping with tongs and/or under a magnifier. Other dispensaries have a jar on the counter but only sell pre-packed nugs of that strain, rather than straight out of the jar. And while you can’t exactly TOUCH the buds yourself in any scenario, you can get pretty up close and personal with the marijuana before you purchase it.

Is On-Site Consumption Allowed

Consumption while on site at a dispensary is NOT allowed in Colorado. Consumption in any public place is illegal. Colorado cannabis users are lucky though because while “public” use is out the door at the moment, the laws aren’t super clear – which leaves room for a lot of grey area. Cannabis events can advertise as private, sell tickets in advance thereby limiting entry so it isn’t open to the public. This method has been working for everyone so far and barring any raucous or violent incidents taking place at such an event (which hasn’t happened yet) it will continue to work for the foreseeable future.

Is On-Site Food, Drink or Alcohol Allowed

Don’t even try it. Maybe you can drink water from a water bottle while you’re in the waiting room, but don’t think of chowing down or popping a brewsky.

Location Restrictions

Generally, cannabis facilities are going to need to be 1,000 ft from any K-12 school. Not that anyone K-12 could get INTO one of these facilities, because to be allowed inside a person is carded and must be 21 or older… Education media outlet, Chalkbeat, covered the zoning requirements and discovered an interesting bit,

“State law recommends a 1,000-foot buffer between medical marijuana facilities and schools, drug rehabilitation centers and child care centers. But the law allowed local authorities to set their own rules.

So Colorado Springs, for example, allows marijuana facilities within 400 feet of schools while Denver has several closer than 1,000 feet. Those facilities have been allowed to continue operating because they opened before the state law was enacted.”

Worth Mentioning

Denver is getting its chance to legalize social use once and for all. Take a long hard look at Initiative 300 (also known as The Neighborhood-Supported Cannabis Consumption Pilot Program Initiative) and vote YES on 300 in November if you are a Denver resident!

WASHINGTON

Inspection

The inspection process in Washington is a fairly limited one. At Main Street Marijuana in Vancouver, Washington, customers are presented with a list of available strains and products that day. There is absolutely no green on the sales floor to look at or smell before purchase. The customer selects their strain and amount desired and a Main Street Marijuana employee retrieves your pre-packed order from a secured area and you’ve got your stash.

ALL cannabis in Washington is pre-packaged, right after it has been tested and approved for consumption by a lab. Testing helps prevent product containing mold, pesticides or other hazardous contaminants from circulating into the community. Only the best for Washingtonians!

Is On-Site Consumption Allowed

Initiative 502, the measure the legalized recreational cannabis in Washington, did not however, legalize on-site consumption. No dispensary can allow a client, patient or otherwise, to consume cannabis on their property. The laws regarding actual consumption are similar to Colorado’s – you can only smoke it if you are not in “view of the general public.”

Is On-Site Food, Drink or Alcohol Allowed

Licensed marijuana shops can only sell marijuana and marijuana infused products, as far as consumables go. And no other type of business, like a head shop or convenience store, will be able to apply for a license to sell pot within their current business.

Location Restrictions

“Retail cannabis shops must not be within 1000 feet of any K-12 school, playground, recreation center or facility, child care center, public park, public transit center, library, or game arcade that allows minors to enter.”

It is also an option for cities, town and/or counties in the State of Washington to relegate marijuana businesses to a specified area or zone or ban them altogether!

Worth Mentioning

If you are a data nerd (I am! I am!) check out this informative, weekly report  the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board puts out. It’s got info on licensing, locations, production, sales and compliance for cannabis businesses within the state.

OREGON

Check – In

The Cannabist reported on the unique, not so uptight way recreational dispensaries in Oregon handle check-in,

“Oregon dispensaries won’t be taking names as they do with registered medical marijuana patients, but they must record the customer’s birthdate and information about products purchased.”

Is On-Site Consumption Allowed

Measure 91 legalized cannabis for recreational use but,

“Public consumption is still prohibited under law.  Licensure for a cannabis café allowing public use would require a statutory change.  Also, cannabis falls under the regulation of Oregon’s Clean Air Act in 2016.”

Just like Washington and Colorado, Oregon does not allow in dispensary consumption – or any type of public consumption for that matter. Anyone surprised? All use of cannabis or cannabis products must take place out of view of the public.

There is one exception though! If you are an employee of the dispensary and a registered medical patient you CAN consume on property. However,

“it is important to note that as of March 1, 2016, an employee may not smoke or use a system that includes combusting, inhaling, vaporizing, or aerosolizing.”

So I guess that leaves…drinking cannabis, sublinguals (under the tongue method) or edibles, patches and topicals. It isn’t a joint on your lunch break, but it is some kind of bone thrown at the medical patients working in the cannabis industry.

Is On-Site Food, Drink or Alcohol Allowed

Nope. If someone has the ability to sell marijuana, they will not simultaneously have the ability to sell alcohol. If a business with a liquor license allows marijuana consumption, they could lose said license.

Location Restrictions

According to the Oregon Health Authority, dispensaries in Oregon follow the 1,000 foot rule when it comes to K-12 schools (or another dispensary). If a dispensary is opened within 1000 feet of a primary or secondary school, or within that proximity to another licensed dispensary the police are going to shut that down as soon as they catch wind of it.

Worth Mentioning

Very recently a dispensary in Portland was robbed. No one was hurt, because no one was there, but at least four of the robbers were reportedly wielding handguns. Read more over at The Oregonian (Live).

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