Nevada Closes Dispensary Storefronts But Maintains Cannabis Delivery

Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak (D) last week ordered the closure of medical and adult-use brick-and-mortar retailers — cannabis delivery services, however, can remain open, the Reno Gazette Journal reports.

Medical cannabis proponents had argued that the industry should remain open during the COVID-19 outbreak for the sake of patients with serious medical conditions. The belief is that brick-and-mortar closures will help prevent further spread of the infection, while delivery is also a safer option for immune-compromised patients.

Meanwhile, all cannabis cultivators, processors, distributors, and independent testing labs in Nevada will continue to operate under exceptionally stringent social distancing guidelines.

Tax officials assess that there are currently 38 dispensaries in the state that offer delivery services and the Marijuana Enforcement Division has implemented a 360° video that will allow them to inspect new delivery vehicles. These vehicles will be brought on to meet new demand as all cannabis sales in the state move to the delivery model. Each newly inspected vehicle will receive a 60-day license for delivery.

Since the enactment of stay-at-home orders in multiple major U.S. regions, cannabis shops have not only seen a general surge in customers but also a notable increase in how much people are buying — such upward trends are usually only seen in 4/20 and Thanksgiving holiday sales numbers.

According to BDS Analytics’ CEO Roy Bingham, cannabis sales are up 30% nationwide. Only time will tell, however, if the buying trend will continue as people around the world continue to self-isolate. Meanwhile, many officials are implementing new regulations to increase delivery and curbside service availability and ensure that stores can serve as many people as possible.