The passage of Assembly Bill 341 brings a new era to Nevada’s cannabis consumerism— cannabis consumption lounges. During the 2021 legislative session, the Chamber of Cannabis worked diligently alongside then assemblymen, Steve Yeager, and lobbyist, Scot Rutledge, to introduce and ensure the passing of AB341, forever changing the history and landscape of Nevada’s cannabis industry. Assembly Bill 341 not only laid the groundwork for cannabis consumption lounges and changed the way we consume cannabis in Nevada,but was also the first bill to include social equity, helping to create opportunity for individuals affected by failed policy. When applying for a consumption lounge license, applicants must provide a diversity plan summarizing actionable steps and goals for meaningful inclusion. Furthermore, half of the independent consumption licenses in the first round were required to be awarded to social equity applicants, helping to create and maintain diverse and inclusive ownership within Nevada’s cannabis industry.
Until now, it has only been legal to consume cannabis in a private residence, leaving it illegal to consume in public. Furthermore, the lack of places individuals were allowed to partake in cannabis was a huge disadvantage to the tourism industry in Nevada. Tourists were allowed to purchase cannabis, and yet had nowhere to consume the product safely or legally. Consumption lounges offer a solution, as well as an experience, for those visiting our state who partake in the plant. According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, 40.8 million people visited Las Vegas in 2023, and spent around 13 billion dollars. Within this lies an excellent opportunity for consumption lounges, as it is estimated almost half (49%) of domestic airline tourists are coming from adult-use states. Furthermore, the other 51% now have the opportunity to partake in cannabis safely and legally if they choose. While the Nevada cannabis industry has experienced some losses in recent years, it is trending in the right direction, and consumption lounges create a new line of commerce that is going to propel the industry forward. From ancillary to licensee, consumption lounges will enrich the Nevada cannabis market. As economic indicators such as gross casino revenue and visitor volume continue to show significant increase, the 850-million-dollar-industry may be able to hit and surpass the $1 billion once again. Consumption lounges put cannabis tourism and consumerism in a position for exponential growth as the industry changes and continues to produce more ventures and experiences.
Members of the Chamber of Cannabis attended the recent launch of the first state-regulated consumption lounge, Smoke and Mirrors, where they made up more than half the crowd. Ushered in by the passing of AB341, this pivotal moment launches an exciting and fruitful new line of commerce and opportunity for the industry. Scot Rutledge, the lobbyist who worked tirelessly to help pass AB341, is managing the launch of the consumption lounge with his company RESET. Redefining the cannabis experience, RESET combines cannabis regulatory and hospitality expertise to develop and operate social use lounges that accommodate diverse demographics, setting the gold standard for consumption lounges in Nevada. Scot and his team unveiled a sophisticated and luxurious approach to consumption with Smoke and Mirrors. The polished venue offers an intimate environment where you can enjoy cannabis-infused mocktails, high-quality cannabis flower, and the company of friends and colleagues while relaxing on plush couches or elegant high-top tables. It is just the beginning of this new experience for the Nevada cannabis industry, and will bring the community together and individuals from all walks of life to connect with one another, while simultaneously supporting the economy.
Witnessing the opening of the first of many state-regulated cannabis consumption lounges that will open across the state of Nevada was a pivotal moment for the Chamber of Cannabis and a reminder of why we all work vigorously to advocate for sensible cannabis policies that will change history. The Chamber of Cannabis is proud to be part of moments that will forever change the landscape of the cannabis industry in Nevada and beyond.
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