SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- Cannabis cafes could soon be coming to western Massachusetts now that the state’s Cannabis Control Commission voted unanimously to approve social consumption regulations.

The new regulations allow businesses to apply for licenses to offer cannabis consumption on-site, including one-day permits for festivals and outdoor events. Yoga studios, music festivals, and coffee shops could soon offer marijuana under the approved regulations.

Easthampton Mayor Salem Derby said his city is excited about the possibilities. “I think there is a decent fit for movement activities like yoga, doing meditative things, even having group outdoor exercise classes, bike rides on the bike path, those types of things,” he explained.

Not everyone is celebrating the new regulations. Some community members are worried about the smell or people driving under the influence. Springfield Police spokesperson Ryan Walsh said the department will treat these venues similar to bars. “Our officers are out there every night. If they see someone driving erratically, they don’t target these bars or which would be cannabis cafes in any way, but if they see someone driving erratically, one, it’s on your own self to police yourself to make sure that you take an Uber or find another way home if you’re intoxicated, whether it be alcohol or weed,” he added.

Cities and towns will now decide whether to allow these cannabis cafes in their communities. Local officials could soon be making decisions about whether one opens in their area.

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