EASTHAMPTON, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - Cannabis cafes could soon open in your neighborhood. The Cannabis Control Commission of Massachusetts voted unanimously today to approve social consumption regulations.

It has been a decade in the making. Voters approved the measure with legalization back in 2016. Now, it’s finally happening. Easthampton’s Mayor Salem Derby said his town is ready, but not everyone is on board.

“The one I’m excited about is a one-day license for outdoor consumption, so like music festivals and things like that,” Mayor Derby said.

Picture this, yoga studios where you can light up, music festivals with cannabis lounges, even coffee shops serving pot. The State Cannabis Control Commission approved regulations today that would allow licensed establishments to offer on-site cannabis consumption.

The new rules create three types of licenses. Dispensaries could add consumption areas, businesses like yoga studios, theaters, and cafes could host cannabis experiences. Event organizers could get one-day permits for festivals.

Derby said his town wants to be part of a pilot program, “It’s something that, you know, we’ve actually given quite a bit of thought to as a community.” Many in Easthampton, including the mayor, see opportunity.

But Karen from Longmeadow has concerns, “I am not in favor of that, it’s been a concern of mine because I see people driving and enjoying their cannabis and I worry about that a lot”

The Cannabis Control Commission built in safeguards; social consumption sites must have a rideshare plan. They cannot serve alcohol with cannabis, and they must provide food and water, no alcohol or tobacco products allowed, pre-packaged foods are permitted, but not cannabis-infused prepared meals, and the site must provide food and water.

Voters first approved this concept nearly a decade ago in a 2016 ballot measure. It’s taken this long to develop the regulations.

Mayor Derby said Easthampton’s goal is to keep people safe, “we don’t want people to like using and going and driving right away. We want people walking and riding their bikes and doing things that are going to help them, you know, enjoy their experience, but not put other people in danger.”

The regulations are now approved, but it’s up to local communities to decide if they want these cafes. Easthampton is ready to say yes, the question is now: Will your town follow?

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