After much urging from the general public, Governor Newsom updated California’s COVID-19 recipient list to include cannabis workers in Phase 1B. While workers are excited to receive their vaccine and continue to work, some lawmakers are angry at this change. One lawmaker is Representative Darrel Issa (R), representative of California’s 50th District, which includes parts of San Diego County and Riverside County. 

Qualification Changes

San Diego County recently changed their stance on cannabis workers receiving vaccines. Originally, cannabis workers were on the list to receive vaccines under Phase 1B. But after pressure from lawmakers and influencers, San Diego County changed its stance. Cannabis workers found themselves removed from the Phase 1B vaccine list. Representative Issa wants the governor to do the same for the whole state he wrote in a recent letter to Governor Newsom. 

Representative Issa states that, “as a fundamental matter, our law enforcement officials put themselves in harm’s way and come to the aid of the community whenever called, which has not subsided even during a pandemic. Our teachers are essential to getting our schools safely reopened as soon as possible. With student mental and physical health in decline, we cannot afford to further delay restarting in-person learning. These workers should be top priorities.”

He concludes by urging the governor to change the vaccine list and thanks him in advance in doing so. 

Vaccine Update

However, looking at the updated COVID-19 vaccine guidelines from California, many cannabis workers are still under Phase 1B. Because they are food and agriculture workers. They are also in the same category as teachers and law enforcement, including emergency service providers. The classification definitions are the same as those created back in March of 2020 when the pandemic first started. When only essential workers were allowed to report to work. 

There are a few cannabis workers who do qualify for Phase 1A distribution. But they are the ones who have direct contact with medical cannabis. This is a prescription that many Californians depend on. Knowing that those who handle the medicine are vaccinated against COVID-19 is a relief to those who use this medication. Some prescriptions may be for those who have debilitating diseases. They could be put in serious danger if they contracted COVID-19. This could possibly even lead to death. Vaccinating those who handle the medication is a step to keeping those at risk safe. 

Plus, the cannabis workers who qualify for Phase 1B vaccines are those involved with the growth, production, storage, transportation, and distribution of cannabis products. It’s not just “pot shops” as Rep. Issa pointed out in his statement to the public after submitting his letter to Governor Newsom. But it’s not about pot shops. It’s about keeping consumers and the general public safe. 

Continued Confusion

There seems to be a standstill. It’s unclear if there will be any further changes to the COVID-19 vaccine Phase 1 qualifying workers. If there are any other changes or updates, we will be sure to update you with the latest.

Make sure to check back for more cannabis and hemp related news.