‘PUFF BUS’ WILL SPARK UP REVIEW

Mobile pot biz falls under board scrutiny

The chairman of the state’s Cannabis Control Commission says the legality of mobile weed lounges will be part of its ongoing review of businesses that stem from legalized marijuana use, as a Colorado company eyes bringing its “puff bus” service to the Bay State.

The Herald reported yesterday that a company called Loopr, which is already operating in Denver, wants to expand next year to other states, including Massachusetts, California and Nevada. Loopr customers smoke on a party bus as it tours local dispensaries, hotels and bars.

Asked if such businesses are in keeping with the state’s pot law, Steve Hoffman, chairman of the state Cannabis Control Commission, said the new agency “is evaluating marijuanarelated businesses for regulation and licensure.”

“We are committed to drafting regulations that effectively address potential impacts to public safety and diversion to minors,” Hoffman said.

Jim Borghesani, spokesman for the Yes on 4 committee that sponsored the ballot question that legalized recreational weed use in November, said pot bus enterprises are in keeping with the new law.

“We see these mobile cannabis consumption businesses as no different from the alcohol party buses or limousines that have long been permitted under Massachusetts law,” Borghesani said.

“Patrons of both types of businesses bring aboard their own legal product, have no role in operating the vehicle, and enjoy their substance of choice with like-minded individuals.”

Loopr’s website says the company “is preparing for operations in California, Massachusetts or wherever else the American people choose to end prohibition.”

Loopr’s website advertises “the opportunity to consume cannabis any way you choose in an ultracomfortable multimedia environment with curated music videos and laser light shows stimulating the senses.”

Customers cannot buy weed on the bus but the mobile lounge comes equipped with bongs and hookah-style vaporizers.