Phoenix, Oct 31 (AP) Arizona residents will be able to get recreational cannabis delivered to their homes beginning Friday, marking a new milestone for a state programme that until now had allowed the service only for medical marijuana patients.

The Arizona Department of Health Services is expanding home delivery to anyone 21 and older, with deliveries to be offered through individual dispensaries or third-party services that partner with a state-licensed dispensary to legally deliver the goods.

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Recreational marijuana sales began in Arizona in 2021 under a voter-approved ballot initiative. The measure had passed in the fall of 2020 four years after voters narrowly defeated a similar proposal, although medical marijuana has been legal in the state since 2010.

Sales boomed following legalisation, topping USD 1 billion in 2023.

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Officials with the Arizona Dispensaries Association said the new delivery programme is expected to expand access across the state.

“We are thrilled that the department of health's proactive approach and commitment to implementing a well-thought-out delivery program has helped us reach this landmark moment sooner than expected,” Ann Torrez, the association's executive director, told television station KPNX. (AP)

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