IN OUR VIEW | Shots and Pot? States should watch what they do to encourage vaccinations

The state of Washington is one of several in the country that has legalized recreational marijuana sales.

But should the state encourage its use?

Starting Tuesday, a program called "Joints for Jabs" allows licensed marijuana retailers to hold in-store COVID-19 vaccination clinics and give one marijuana cigarette to each customer age 21 or more who receives the shot.

The state had already approved allowing those vaccinated to receive a free beer, glass of wine or a cocktail.
The COVID-19 vaccination push has states offering all kinds of incentives to residents. Lottery tickets, cash bonuses, prizes.

But marijuana? Legalization is one thing. Promotion is another.

We wonder what the public reaction would be if retailers were encourgaed to give away cigarettes or other tobacco products as a reward for receiving the vaccine? Somehow we doubt there would be much enthusiasm.

In our view, giving away marijuana - or alcohol, for that matter - isn't much better. It's important to encourage vaccinations. But there are some things a state should steer clear of promoting.

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