Committee backs retailer‑mediated cannabis ‘showcase’ pilot to test sales outside stores

The Senate Economic Development, Housing & General Affairs Committee and members of the Cannabis Control Board discussed a pilot program to allow regulated cannabis sales outside retail storefronts at a limited number of licensed events this summer, directing staff to prepare draft language for the committee to consider at its next meeting.

The pilot “really the purpose of it is to answer one simple question: is can a sale of cannabis happen in a regulated way outside the confines of this retail establishment?” said James Pepper, chair of the Cannabis Control Board. Pepper and other board staff described a retailer‑mediated model similar to hospitality special‑event permitting in liquor law, and the committee discussed profit sharing, advertising waivers for event promotion, and tax‑collection mechanics.

Why it matters: Lawmakers framed the pilot as a short‑term experiment to determine whether direct sales at supervised events can expand market access for small craft cultivators without increasing risks of diversion, underage sales or lost tax revenue. Committee members repeatedly emphasized the need to structure the pilot so “small craft growers” receive meaningful benefit and that the board return findings for evaluation.

Most important facts

- Scope and model: The draft pilot would allow a limited number of “cannabis showcase” event permits, run through a retail licensee who would operate point‑of‑sale systems…