Exploring the Potential of “Budtenders” as Harm Reduction Agents: A Study among Cannabis Retail Workers in Washington State

This project will explore the potential for cannabis retail staff (budtenders) to educate their customers on practical strategies aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with cannabis use. A harm reduction framework and qualitative methods will be utilized.

Focus groups comprised of budtenders will explore budtenders’ perspectives on issues of public health significance such as cannabis dosing and potency, cannabis use during pregnancy, acute cannabis intoxication, driving under the influence, cannabis storage and second hand exposure.

Results will be used to inform recommendations for developing training resources for this growing and important segment of the cannabis industry workforce. Findings from this exploratory study will also be used to apply for external support to develop, test and conduct research on harm reduction interventions for cannabis users that can be delivered by budtenders.