Cannabis dispensaries prepare for first 4/20 after recreational marijuana legalization

NEWINGTON, CT (WFSB) - Since the last 4/20, Connecticut has made a lot of progress in terms of cannabis legalization.

In January, recreational marijuana sales became legal in Connecticut.

Curaleaf became Hartford’s first adult use dispensary in the state.

Several dispensaries throughout the state have been selling both recreational and medicinal pot.

Cannabis sales have grown month after month in Connecticut: $13 million in sales in January, $18 million in February, and $22 million in March.

“It’s huge, I think there’s an incredible market here. I think with our neighbors to the north in mass having gone adult use and having been for a long time, I think there’s been a want in this market,” said Derek Culver, Retail District Manager for Curaleaf. “We’ve seen sales increase and traffic increase week over week so we’re excited about the adult use growth here that we’re seeing.”

Some of that revenue is going to the state’s general fund. Other parts of that revenue will go towards helping communities hit hardest by drugs and crime.

Cannabis advocates gathered at the State Capitol Thursday to discuss change they’d like to see in the state.

“I would love to see them put it into some social programs, I would love to see them put it into some education programs, some support programs for families, for people who have been incarcerated,” said Erin Doolittle.

But the rollout hasn’t been full of just highs.

Medical marijuana patients said it’s been harder for them to find the products they need.

“We have been running into shortages, we are running into higher prices than we have ever seen before as patients or consumers,” said Doolittle.

Others want to see more dispensaries open in the state.

“I do feel the state needs to start supporting small business owners in the cannabis industry,” said Duncan Markovic of Branford.

As of July 1, it will be legal for adults in Connecticut to grow cannabis at home, with certain restrictions in place.

Dispensaries around the state geared up for a big day.

Many “4/20″ events will be held on Thursday, including one at Fine Fettle in Newington.

The Department of Transportation issued a few reminders so people can stay safe on the roads. With people partaking in 4/20 activities on Thursday, officials sought to remind drivers that any impaired driving is illegal and carries serious consequences.

They said people who indulge should stay home or get a safe ride.

Copyright 2023 WFSB. All rights reserved.