Fact Checked by Doctor NameAccess points, sometimes called dispensaries, play a crucial role in legal cannabis markets by providing licensed, regulated access to cannabis products.
Let’s explore what defines an access point and why it benefits consumers and communities.
What is an Access Point?
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An access point is a legal, licensed business that sells retail cannabis products to consumers.
Access points must adhere to strict regulations surrounding security, sales practices, labeling, testing, and more.
All inventory must be tracked and tested to ensure safety and potency. States and municipalities that legalise cannabis provide access point licences.
Employers are background-checked. Locations must comply with zoning and compliance rules.
Access points provide safe access to lab-tested products as an alternative to the illicit market.
Benefits of Access Points
Access points benefit consumers by ensuring the following:
- Access to tested, regulated cannabis products
- Product information and education from trained staff
- Adherence to ID and intoxication sales restrictions
- Accurate labeling, dosing, and packaging
- Secure environment and sales practices
They benefit communities through:
- Eliminating illicit sales and substance safety risks
- Tax revenue that can support public programs
- Local economic opportunities and job creation
- Oversight that protects public health and safety
Where to Find an Access Point?
States with legalized cannabis will have a list of licensed access points. Most major cities and population centers will have multiple locations.
Access point finder websites like Leafly and Weedmaps allow looking up licensed retailers by location.
Some states only allow access points to sell either medical or adult-use cannabis, depending on local regulations.
Patients and adult consumers must verify their age and present a valid ID to enter an access point.
