As 2022 arrived, many of the pandemic restrictions that were initially put in place in response to COVID-19 continued to affect the marijuana industry, particularly when it came to dispensary operations and public consumption. Although cannabis dispensaries were classified as essential businesses in many states during the pandemic, new protocols and some lingering restrictions were still being enforced in various regions.
Dispensary Restrictions in 2022
While most cannabis dispensaries returned to regular business operations in 2022, many states continued to enforce post-pandemic health and safety protocols. Some of these restrictions included:
- Curbside Pickup and Delivery: One of the major shifts during the pandemic was the introduction of curbside pickup and delivery services for medical and recreational cannabis purchases. In states like California and Nevada, these services became popular during lockdowns and remained a key feature in 2022. This option allowed patients and consumers to purchase cannabis without entering dispensaries, maintaining social distancing practices.
- Capacity Limits: Even as restrictions eased, some states and municipalities continued to impose capacity limits in dispensaries. Although these restrictions were more relaxed than during the height of the pandemic, dispensaries in places like Illinois and Massachusetts had to limit the number of customers inside at one time, ensuring social distancing could still be maintained.
- Mask Mandates: Certain regions, such as New York City, continued to enforce mask mandates for both dispensary employees and customers in 2022, particularly in indoor settings. These rules reflected local health guidelines rather than specific cannabis-related restrictions.
Source: MJBizDaily – Pandemic Dispensary Trends
Public Consumption Restrictions
When it came to public cannabis consumption, post-pandemic restrictions continued to vary by state and local jurisdictions:
- Public Consumption: States like Colorado and Washington had long-standing laws against public cannabis consumption, and these restrictions remained firmly in place throughout 2022. Despite the relaxation of general pandemic rules, consuming cannabis in public spaces like parks or sidewalks was still prohibited.
- Cannabis Lounges: Some cities, such as Las Vegas and Denver, allowed cannabis consumption lounges to operate, but in 2022, these lounges were required to adhere to pandemic protocols, including capacity limits and sanitation measures. While these venues provided a legal space to consume cannabis, additional restrictions on indoor air quality and mask usage remained enforced.
Source: Leafly – Cannabis Lounge Restrictions
Moving Forward
In 2022, the cannabis industry continued to navigate post-pandemic restrictions, especially in terms of dispensary operations and public consumption laws. Although most regulations were relaxed, some dispensaries still enforced capacity limits and mask mandates, and public consumption remained tightly regulated. These ongoing measures reflect the slow return to normalcy while maintaining the safety protocols that emerged during the pandemic.
Sources: