Alaska Is First State to Approve On-Site Marijuana Use
Alaska has become the first state in the nation with a statewide rule allowing people to use marijuana at licensed dispensaries.
Earlier this week, Lt. Gov. Kevin Meyer signed and filed rules for the use of recreational marijuana at authorized stores. The rule will allow marijuana use in special sections of stores that are separated from the retail area by walls and a secure door, or outdoors. Businesses will have to provide security plans and adequate ventilation.
Licensed retail businesses in Alaska will be able to begin applying for a “special onsite use endorsement” from the state beginning April 11.
It remains unclear when the first Alaska smoking lounges will open for business, but industry observers said it is unlikely to happen before July.
“This is something that’s not happening anywhere else in the U.S. yet,” said Cary Carrigan, executive director of the Alaska Marijuana Industry Association. “As we start to develop this, people are really looking at us, so I know everybody wants to get it right.”
