Missouri cannabis dispensaries could soon have another way to serve customers, as state regulators consider a rule that would permit curbside pickup. The proposal would expand the current options, which already include delivery and drive-thru services with state approval.
The state Division of Cannabis Regulation this week released a draft amendment that outlines how dispensaries could implement curbside pickup. The agency is inviting public comments on the proposal through October 28 before deciding whether to move forward.
For some dispensary owners and cannabis customers, the change could make a big difference. Mark Hendren, CEO of Flora Farms, one of Missouri’s largest cannabis companies, said curbside service would help customers who have mobility challenges. Three of Flora Farms’ eight dispensaries currently lack drive-thru windows, which means every visitor must park, walk inside, and go through standard check-in procedures.
“When customers visit our stores, they have to get out of their vehicles and go through the normal check-in inside the building,” Hendren said. “That process can be challenging for some of our customers with disabilities, so this would really help them.”
Under the draft rules, curbside pickup would operate under strict security and payment guidelines. Customers would have to complete their transactions online in advance, ensuring no cash is exchanged outside the dispensary. The designated pickup areas would also need to be monitored by security cameras, similar to those required for existing drive-thru cannabis lanes.
Dispensaries would additionally be required to display a clear warning sign reminding customers that it is illegal to operate a boat, motor vehicle, or aircraft while under the influence of cannabis.
The draft amendment released on Tuesday is still in the early stages and has not yet been incorporated into the state’s formal rulemaking process. According to the state Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), which oversees the Cannabis Regulation Division, the move is meant to gather input from both industry members and the public before the agency submits an official rule change.
“This step is part of DHSS’s ongoing process to consider all perspectives before filing new or amended regulations,” the department said in a statement.
According to the department’s statement, the goal of the amendment is to improve how dispensaries operate by making cannabis purchases more accessible. The agency said the curbside option would particularly benefit medical patients, caregivers, and consumers with physical limitations who might struggle with in-person transactions.
Such helpful changes are likely to be applauded by players like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) in the wider marijuana industry around the region.
About CNW420
CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.
To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)
For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com
Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer
CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com
CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN