Washington Marijuana Dispensaries Deemed “Essential” Amid Coronavirus

For the last couple of weeks marijuana sales have increased 20% – 30% in Washington. When the lockdown was ordered, many of these businesses worried about being able to stay open. But, fortunately, marijuana businesses can remain open.

Marijuana businesses are deemed “essential businesses” under Governor Jay Inslee’s stay-at-home order, according to the Seattle Times. Even if someone in Washington State doesn’t have a medical marijuana card, many are still using the plant for therapeutic reasons. Those working at marijuana businesses are also considered “essential staff” under the order.

Seattle Dockside Cannabis stores have reported a 50% increase in sales.

Julian O’Reilley of Seattle Dockside Cannabis said, “They are simply buying more to get ready to hunker down.”

Marijuana dispensaries and retailers are taking extra precautions. It’s ideal to contact the location to ask about pre-ordering, ordering online and any procedural or operations hours changes that might be in place.