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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Pot cafes could be coming to Massachusetts after the state's Cannabis Control Commission voted to create a pilot program for them Thursday.
The commission wants to license 12 cannabis cafes in communities willing to host the public gathering spots, where customers can enjoy cannabis in a social setting.
Commission Chairman Steven Hoffman told WBZ NewsRadio's Mike Macklin the commission still needs to adopt regulations to control everything from serving sizes to the ability of a cafe employee—or "bud tender"—to refuse service to someone deemed "over-served" and under the influence.
"I think it's the right thing for the state, and to do it, as we just voted on, in a pilot and take it slowly and learn, and be very, very engaged and collaborative with the cities and towns that are going to be a part of this," Hoffman said.
There will be public hearings in July, before a final commission vote.
State lawmakers and Gov. Charlie Baker must also sign off on a final policy.
Currently, the only place where residents can legally use marijuana is at home.
WBZ NewsRadio's Mike Macklin (@mikemacklinwbz) reports