Commission Authorizes Curbside Pickup At Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers

Medical marijuana treatment centers (MTCs) in Massachusetts will soon be able to offer curbside pickup of medical marijuana and marijuana products for registered qualifying patients and caregivers in order to limit Coronavirus (“COVID-19”) transmission during Massachusetts’ state of emergency.

The Cannabis Control Commission issued an administrative order temporarily authorizing the activity pursuant to the administration’s declaration and essential services and revised gatherings order that deemed MTC services essential to the Commonwealth. Throughout Massachusetts’ state of emergency, MTCs will have the option to add sales by phone or electronic means and the transfer of marijuana and marijuana products in the parking area of their premises or to an individual at the entrance to the MTC. In the interest of public safety, cash payments will only be accepted inside the facility.

The commission issued a cease and desist order, beginning March 24, to all adult-use marijuana operations following a stay-at-home advisory and emergency order issued by the administration. The cease and desist order will last until 12 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7.

It will apply to all marijuana establishments, including marijuana retailers, as well as colocated marijuana operations, which are licensed to service both the adult and medical use of marijuana programs in the state. The latter may continue to perform medical functions along with licensed medical MTCs. Sixty-one MTCs are currently operating in the Commonwealth.

Updates on the current orders will be announced on the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission website.