NPR

'Illegal To Essential': How The Coronavirus Is Boosting The Legal Cannabis Industry

More than 20 states designated marijuana businesses essential during the coronavirus shutdown. Cannabis activists say it's a remarkable development, given that it remains illegal under federal law.

The coronavirus crisis could be igniting a revolution of sorts in the legal cannabis industry.

Thirty-three states across the nation allow for some form of sale and consumption of marijuana. And of those, more than 20 states have designated the cannabis industry as essential during the coronavirus outbreak.

While advocates are applauding many of the interim marijuana laws, they also said it exposes dangerous disparities between states.

Twenty-four states including Florida, Connecticut, Pennsylvania and New Mexico have permitted customers to pick up marijuana purchases curbside at dispensaries.

Nevada has shut down all storefronts, but moved to delivery-only statewide.

Ohio, Delaware

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