Why it matters: The article highlights the emergence of cannabis-friendly bus tours in Colorado and the regulations surrounding these businesses. It also discusses the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the cannabis hospitality industry and the slow implementation of marijuana hospitality licenses.
What they are saying: Cannabis Experience, the first licensed mobile marijuana hospitality establishment in the nation, offers bus tours where guests are allowed to smoke on the bus but cannot purchase marijuana during the ride. They provide safe consumption information and offer non-alcoholic beverages and food. The company also coordinates airport pickup and drop-off for tourists. Other businesses have applied for marijuana mobile hospitality licenses, which are currently only available to “social equity” applicants who meet specific requirements.
The big picture: The legalization of recreational marijuana in Colorado has led to the emergence of cannabis-friendly businesses, including bus tours. However, the implementation of marijuana hospitality licenses has been slow due to the need for municipalities to opt in. The current licensing process and regulations aim to ensure the safety and compliance of these businesses.
What to watch: It will be interesting to see how the cannabis-friendly bus tour industry evolves in Colorado and whether other states will adopt similar regulations. The success and challenges faced by Cannabis Experience and other businesses could influence the expansion of the marijuana hospitality market.
My take: The legalization of cannabis has created new business opportunities in various industries, including tourism and hospitality. Cannabis-friendly bus tours offer a unique experience for tourists and can contribute to the local economy. However, it is crucial to strike a balance between providing cannabis-related services and ensuring public safety and compliance with regulations. The slow implementation of marijuana hospitality licenses highlights the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in this emerging industry and the need for further regulatory development.