NJ dispensaries might be allowed to sell snacks if bill passes

JERSEY CITY, N.J. (PIX11) — New Jersey’s licensed cannabis dispensaries are one-stop shops, if cannabis is all you’re looking for.

Assemblyman Joe Danielsen is authoring a bill to allow cannabis retailers to sell non-intoxicating food and drinks.

“It seems to me to be insane to expect a business model that requires a business to sell one category of product and not go out of business eventually,” said Danielsen (D-NJ 17 ^th District). “I want these businesses to be successful, every single one of them.”

Osbert Orduna, CEO of The Cannabis Place in Jersey City, says being able to sell anything from snacks to cases of water would further normalize dispensaries as part of the community.

“Those types of things are items people might want to pick up as they’re picking up their cannabis because why not?” said Orduna.

If the bill were to become law, Orduna says customers would still need to show their ID to enter the dispensary, even if it’s just to get something to eat or drink.

“Let’s say you and I came into the business together, I’m picking up my cannabis but you’re not a cannabis consumer, but you are 21 and over, you’re in the store, and you want to pick up a cup of coffee with your friend that’s also shopping. Why not? Right? That’s a good thing,” said Orduna.

Not everyone sees it as a good thing.

Next door to the cannabis place is the Indian Food Market Desi Deli, which says many cannabis customers end up visiting them afterward. The deli’s owner, who wanted to remain anonymous, is worried if the dispensary starts selling their own snacks, it might cut into their business.

“They give us a lot of business when it comes to snacks, so it will definitely impact us,” the owner said, noting that they still support businesses in their community.

Orduna thinks people who frequent other convenience stores likely won’t go out of their way to get snacks at a dispensary. “It’s a convenience thing,” said Orduna. “It’s about accessibility, it’s about normalization.”

The bill is set for discussion in committee.

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