There will always be civic debate regarding the legalization of medical marijuana in Connecticut, and throughout the United States for that matter. Despite the fact that some struggle to see how cannabis improves our state on both a financial and community level, there are true benefits of the medical plant. Connecticut dispensaries are improving neighborhoods.
Those against the legalization of marijuana have voiced their concerns, and that’s fair. However, with industry leaders involved in the discussion, we can pinpoint worries and exchange them with evidence that points to the positive outcomes of legalization.
There’s now a stronger path for in-field testing from cannabis manufacturers, labs, cultivators, and dispensaries. The problem isn’t legalization – it’s misinformation. Pharmacists are the same personnel who have studied medical marijuana in Connecticut, and who better to work with when trying to understand the science behind it all?
Fine Fettle’s Connecticut dispensaries emphasize the importance of consuming products safely for responsible and effective use. Here are six benefits that marijuana dispensaries like Fine Fettle bring to the state of Connecticut.
1. Job opportunities are growing
Legalizing medical marijuana in Connecticut has brought job opportunities that will help grow the local economy. The 2021 Leafly Jobs Report found 321,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs supported by legal cannabis as of January 2021. The number of jobs has increased each of the last four years.
Not only do dispensaries require various types of staff (security, front desk, pharmacists, management, etc.), but the continuous study of marijuana also adds jobs to spaces in:
- Manufacturing
- Scientific labs
- Farming
- Product designers
- Marketers
- And more
Fine Fettle employs nearly 50 people in Connecticut. 40% of our staff is minority; our managers are all minorities; women lead our teams, LGBTQ+ are all represented. We not only add positive economic impact, but do it the right way.
2. The Connecticut economy benefits from taxes
David Narcewicz, Mayor of Northampton, MA, told BusinessWest, “We’re starting to see some of the economic benefits in terms of taxes, and I know our local businesses have been creative in embracing the new industry.”
In 2022, Connecticut can anticipate $188 to $223 million in direct cannabis tax revenues, in addition to $21 million in local taxes that can fall into the following general funding categories:
- Personnel costs: This covers salaries and benefits for state employees and payments toward teacher pensions and retirement benefits.
- Municipal aid: Connecticut provides money to cities and towns for a variety of functions, much of which is education.
- Medicaid: This is the health coverage program for eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities.
- Debt service: Money the state spends to repay past borrowing.
With towns reporting tax benefits and little community disruption, there continue to be new dispensary openings. We’re seeing growth in the economic benefits of this budding industry.
3. There’s better personal safety
Instead of illegal, black market buys, the legalization of marijuana and safe dispensaries help prevent potential dangers in the street. We understand there is a black market and it will likely continue to exist, but we also know that every product in our facility is tested, safe, and is what it says it is 100% of the time.
Connecticut dispensaries provide a safe space for medical marijuana patients to get access to their medicine. Patients need to be able to buy marijuana safely and legally. A dispensary promotes responsible behavior.
4. You can increase your knowledge of cannabis
Those who have less experience with medical marijuana can shop easier with the help of well-trained pharmacists and staff. No matter what background you have with cannabis, a dispensary team will meet you at your level and answer any questions you have.
Robyn Ward, a Google Local Guide, said this about her experience at Fine Fettle’s Willimantic dispensary:
“They are SERIOUSLY the most amazing, kind, patient and understanding group of people I've ever met. From the front desk to the pharmacist the amount of kindness and love is the same.”
5. There are many medical benefits
Dispensaries are in the business of helping their patients with solutions that fit their personal needs to live a better life. Medical marijuana is often used to alleviate the symptoms of qualifying conditions like:
- Chronic pain
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Cancer pain
6. The community comes closer together
From seniors to millennials, from rich to poor, the cannabis community is represented by all types of people. The perception and stigma that marijuana brings to your neighborhood are changing.
There’s often a belief that banning dispensaries will prevent cannabis from entering a community, as if potential patients aren’t already in the local community. People who need the plant are all around us, and legalization brings the community closer together.
As we aim to stop the spread of misinformation, it’s important to reflect on both sides of the fence. Connecticut dispensaries are tremendous employers and socially responsible members of the communities and neighborhoods in which they operate.
Looking for a unique dispensary experience? Visit Fine Fettle!
Browse the Fine Fettle online menu for the best high-grade cannabis products and gear. Stop by one of our Connecticut dispensaries in Willimantic, Newington, and Stamford for one-on-one support from our knowledgeable pharmacists. We’ll find the right product for you.