Where some states are following Ohio’s example of providing an incentive for getting the COVID vaccine, some states are going a bit of a different direction in terms of what’s offered. Washington, for example, has begun to offer a free joint to any adult who receives the shot. The idea, titled “Joints for Jabs” in the state of Washington, has apparently proven to be quite popular among cannabis enthusiasts. Similar deals have popped up in Arizona and California. However, there are some restrictions on what the events are offering.
Background
This came about, in part, from President Biden’s goal to have 70 percent of the adult population to have at least one shot by July 4. The fact that the vaccination numbers started to slow down in mid-April didn’t help matters either. While the country didn’t reach the goal, there has been information to show that these projects have been somewhat successful. For example, the DC Marijuana Justice group distributed more than 10,000 free joints at multiple events while they performed their event.
Description
While the details of the projects differed depending on the state, these unique events’ core process go simply in the same way. This process is that the patient will go to wherever they are having the vaccinations offered and get the jab. Once they do that, they will go to dispensaries that are promoting the deal to show their vaccination card. However, some dispensaries will have employees actually at the vaccination location. Once they show their card, they’ll be rewarded with, at least, a single pre-rolled marijuana joint.
Some states would offer some gummy edibles on top of the joint, whereas others offer only the single joint.
Restrictions
There are, of course, restrictions to enjoying these events. The biggest one is that anyone hoping to take part would have to be at least 21 years of age. So, any teens hoping to get a free joint will be sorely disappointed. Also, some states and dispensaries were only performing these events temporarily. As such, anyone looking to get some free marijuana will want to call ahead to check if they can participate.
Understanding
While this idea focuses on a specific market, the fact that it did its part to increase the vaccination numbers cannot be denied. With over 10,000 joints given out, it equivalates to the same number of vaccinations performed. This, in turn, means more people are protected against the COVID disease.
With any luck, the incentive of free marijuana along with the others will draw more people to do their part in ending the pandemic.
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