LOS ANGELES (AP) — Legal marijuana has become established in some form into all but a handful of states, but the industry faces a challenge as the economy falters amid the coronavirus crisis.
The unofficial holiday celebrating cannabis culture on Monday, known as 4/20, arrived with widespread uncertainty about the direction of the market as unemployment lines grow and consumers find themselves short on cash.
The 4/20 holiday would usually be marked with outdoor festivals and communal smoking sessions, but this year, stay-at-home orders have moved the party online.
Sales soared at the start of lockdowns in March but business generally has flattened or tapered off since then, though some sellers are reporting boosts as government assistance checks reach consumers.
