Cannabis Legalization

Stay updated on cannabis legalization efforts across the U.S. and globally, including policy changes and legislative updates.

Modern interior of an Alaska cannabis lounge with ambient lighting and comfortable seating.
Alaska, Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Licensing & Applications, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Recreational, United States

Alaska Cannabis Lounge Licensing: A Comprehensive Guide for Operators and Investors

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Alaska has emerged as a pioneer in permitting on-site cannabis consumption, authorizing licensed retail marijuana stores to add consumption lounge endorsements. As an Alaska cannabis consultant, we at Catalyst BC know the rules inside out. This article walks you through the entire process of applying for and obtaining an Alaska cannabis lounge license (officially an onsite consumption endorsement for a retail store).

Interior view of a modern cannabis consumption lounge with stylish seating
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Laws and Regulations, Recreational, United States

Prime Placement: How to Choose the Ideal Cannabis Lounge Location

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Opening a cannabis consumption lounge isn’t just about designing an inviting interior or curating an on-site menu—it all starts with finding the right spot. A thoughtfully chosen location will maximize foot traffic, satisfy zoning laws, and earn community goodwill, setting the stage for long-term success. As seasoned Cannabis Consultants, Catalyst BC guides you through each step of the site-selection journey, from preliminary feasibility to municipal outreach.

Cannabis flower nug beside a stack of infused cookies representing menu development for cannabis lounges.
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Laws and Regulations, Recreational, United States

Elevate Your Experience: Developing a Winning On-Site Cannabis Menu

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An outstanding consumption lounge is defined not just by ambiance, but by the variety and quality of products you offer. Whether you opt for a BYO (bring-your-own) model or curate an in-house selection of edibles, pre-rolls, and concentrates, menu development demands strategic sourcing, rigorous compliance, and attention to guest preferences. As your Cannabis Consultants, Catalyst BC partners with procurement, compliance, and culinary experts to craft a menu that delights patrons and drives revenue.

Architectural blueprints on a table with drafting tools used in cannabis lounge design planning.
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Facility Design, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Laws and Regulations

Cannabis Lounge Design & Build-Out Guide: Blueprint for Success

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Creating a standout cannabis consumption lounge requires more than style—it demands airtight compliance, optimized workflows, and an ambiance that elevates the guest experience. In this guide, we share essential design and build-out considerations, from space planning and ventilation to ADA accessibility and fire-code compliance. Leverage our Cannabis Consultants in keeping vendors, contractors, and regulators aligned so your lounge opens on time and within budget.

Interior of a modern, cannabis consumption lounge with seating
California, Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Licensing & Applications, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Colorado, Medical Cannabis, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Recreational, United States

Cannabis Consumption Lounges: Which States Permit On-Site Use in 2025?

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Across much of the U.S., legally consuming cannabis is restricted to private residences—and even then, landlords or HOAs often ban it. Although retail sales of cannabis are legal in several jurisdictions, only a handful of public venues let adults consume their purchases on-site. Alaska led the way in December 2018, when its Marijuana Control Board rolled out statewide rules for on-site consumption. But it wasn’t until 2019 that the Original Cannabis Café in West Hollywood became America’s first social lounge. Since then, more states have drafted their own frameworks to permit these communal spaces.

Close-up of high-quality bubble hash, created using solventless extraction for pure, terpene-rich cannabis concentrates.
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Genetics Consulting, Hemp Extraction

Solventless Extraction – A Beginner’s Guide to Ice Water Extraction

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Today’s cannabis buyers prioritize flavor, potency, and trust. Solventless products deliver, helping brands build loyal customers and command premium pricing in competitive markets. As consumers become more educated, they gravitate toward full-spectrum, minimally processed extracts. Solventless offerings not only meet these demands but often exceed expectations in terms of aroma, taste, and effect.

A construction worker holding a hard hat and wearing a tool apron with various tools, symbolizing New York Cannabis Facility Design and construction planning.
Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Facility Design, Laws and Regulations, New York, United States

New York Cannabis Facility Design: Key Strategies for Success

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Developing a New York cannabis facility design requires more than just constructing a building—it demands strategic planning to optimize efficiency, ensure compliance, and support scalability. Given New York’s evolving cannabis regulations, a well-planned facility can streamline operations and set the stage for long-term success. Similar to food processing plants, cannabis cultivation facilities must be designed for workflow efficiency, regulatory adherence, and future expansion to remain competitive in the market.

A dreamcatcher hanging in the morning sun, symbolizing resilience and opportunity for Tribal Cannabis Business.
Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Licensing & Applications, Cannabis News, Laws and Regulations, Tribal Cannabis Business, United States

Breaking Barriers: Challenges and Opportunities for Tribal Cannabis Business

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The cannabis industry is experiencing rapid growth, projected to expand from nearly $33 billion in 2023 to $49 billion by 2026. While legalization has provided economic opportunities in many states, Native American tribes face significant hurdles in accessing this booming market due to federal and state regulatory barriers. Tribes seeking entry into the cannabis industry encounter unique challenges, including difficulties in securing licensing, financing, and banking services—all essential components for launching and sustaining a cannabis business.

Person holding their nose due to strong cannabis odor outside a greenhouse.
California, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Facility Design, Cannabis News, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Laws and Regulations, United States

Cannabis Odor Control: How Cultivators Can Prevent Legal Issues with Advanced Solutions

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A recent California Superior Court ruling has sent ripples through the cannabis industry by allowing a class-action lawsuit to proceed against Valley Crest Farms, a greenhouse cannabis cultivation operation in Carpinteria Valley. The case revolves around persistent odor complaints from nearby residents, who claim that the strong, unpleasant smell of cannabis has negatively impacted their property values, businesses, and overall quality of life.

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