The California Department of Public Health announced February 5 cannabis workers have been prioritized to receive the Covid-19 vaccines:
"Cannabis industry employees are included in Phase 1a for medicinal cannabis and Phase 1b Food and Agriculture for growing, production, storage, transport and distribution. Medical cannabis workers should be accommodated as necessary in Phase 1b, Tier 1, by nature of their designations in eligible essential workforce classifications."
The United Cannabis Business Assocation had advocated for this desgination. On their website, it reads:
"We wish to thank Gov. Newsom for his continued commitment in support of essential cannabis workers."
In Leafly's Job Report 2020, California topped the nation with nearly 40,000 cannabis workers.
In 2020, marijuana businesses were declared "essential," allowing the retail industry to stay open and cater to thouands of cannabis consumers.
Currently, there are two Covid vaccines: Pfizer and Moderna. A third from Johnson & Johnson is expected to be available soon.
Pot for Shots
Several organizations have promised to give people marijuana after they receive their vaccinations. Presumably, this is to encourage people to get the Covid vaccine. It's also good publicity for the cannabis industry.
In January, DC Marijuana Justice drew headlines for their "Joints for Jabs" promotion. "This community effort aims to highlight the need for further local and national cannabis reform while also advocating for equitable distribution of the critical vaccine," they stated.
In Wall Lake, Michigan, Greenhouse dispensary has a similar idea called "Pot for Shots." Owner Jerry Millen commented: "If I can help stop the pandemic in any slightest way, and this is the way I can do it, so be it.”
