Branford, CT Bluepoint Wellness, one of nine medical marijuana dispensaries in the state of Connecticut, opened its new, larger operation at 471 Main Street on Monday.
Connecticut legalized medical marijuana for adults in 2012. There are eight operating dispensaries in the state and a ninth, located in Milford, slated to open shortly.
Bluepoint Wellness in Branford, recently received permission from the Branford zoning commission to move into a much bigger space across the street from its current location on East Main Street.
There are currently more than 15,000 medical marijuana patients in the state and the number keeps growing.
In the past legislative session, a bill became law giving children under the age of 18 access to non-smokeable medical marijuana.
The new law, which went into effect last Oct. 1, gives minors with severe epilepsy and terminal illnesses access to marijuana after the approval of two doctors.
Physicians may certify that a particular patient has been diagnosed with a disease that makes the patient eligible for the palliative use of marijuana and, based on a medically reasonable assessment of the patients medical history and medical condition, the potential benefits to the patient from the palliative use of marijuana would likely outweigh the health risks.
Additionally, the maximum allowable monthly amount is 2.5 ounces unless a physician indicates a lesser amount is appropriate.
In Branford, Nick Tamorrino, founder and manager of Bluepoint Wellness, recently told town zoners that he plans to use the additional space at a former bank site across the street from its old home to have separate treatment locations for children and adults.
The Branford Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously granted approval to Bluepoints move to the bigger location.
Branford Town Planner Harry Smith told zoners there have been no problems or complaints about the medical marijuana business since it opened for business two years ago.
Branford First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove has repeatedly said that Bluepoint has been a good business for the town.
An added bonus to Bluepoints move across the street is that the always busy Planet Fitness gym will gain back a few additional parking spaces that the old Bluepoint Wellness business occupied at the end of the parking lot.
Children who quality for medical marijuana treatment must suffer a terminal illness requiring end-of-life care; or cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy, severe epilepsy, or uncontrolled intractable seizure disorder; or an irreversible spinal cord injury with certain neurological conditions.
To qualify, a person under 18 needs permission from a parent or guardian and two physicians. The form of the marijuana they would be given would not be smoked vaporized or inhaled.
News Moderator: Katelyn Baker
Full Article: Branford Medical Marijuana Dispensary Moves To New Larger Location
Author: Brian McCready
Contact: Branford Patch
Photo Credit: None Found
Website: Branford Patch
