Nevada received a total of 100 complete applications for cannabis consumption lounges, including 50 for standalone lounges, 30 for independent lounges from social-equity applicants, and 20 for lounges that would be attached to retail locations.
The state Cannabis Compliance Board (CCB) plans to issue licenses for both retail and independent lounges. In all, the board may issue 20 licenses for independent lounges, half of which are designated for social-equity licensees, the agency said in a press release.
There is no competitive selection process for adult-use consumption lounge licenses.
The board approved regulations for the lounges in June. The CCB indicated its members will review all applications, and there will be two random drawings in early December to determine which applicants will be granted a license, KTNV reports. In a Marijuana Moment op-ed earlier this year, Gov. Steve Sisolak (D) said cannabis has become “a major attraction and revenue generator” for the state.
“Whereas consumption lounges in other states like Illinois and California have been bogged down by local regulations, costs of compliance and BYOB(ud) policies that have stunted the industry, Nevada is setting our lounges up for success,” he wrote. “Additionally, while most of the consumption lounges in other states don’t offer food, beverages, or other entertainment options, Nevada’s lounges will be a one-stop entertainment shop to create jobs, grow the industry, and boost our economy.”
CCB officials anticipate the first lounges will be licensed and able to open in early 2023.
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