US Online Store Distributes Free Medical Marijuana to Federal Employees Impacted by Government Shutdown

During the month-long freeze of the US federal government, many citizens and organizations have stepped up to help government employees who have been left without pay. For example, renowned chef José Andrés has been organizing free banquets for those affected, and food industry giant Kraft Foods has opened food distribution points in several cities across the country.

Earlier this week, BudTrader.com, considered the largest online platform for distributing marijuana in California, joined the ranks of organizations typically offering food assistance to those in need. BudTrader.com announced that it would provide free medical marijuana buds to all federal employees who request them.

As a reminder, due to the shutdown of most federal government operations by President Trump—because he was unable to reach an agreement with Congress on building a border wall with Mexico—more than 800,000 Americans have been without work and income for a month.

“I believe that government workers left without jobs need more than just help with food. That’s why we decided to give away free medical marijuana to any federal employee who wants it, so they don’t go without necessary medicine or its equivalents during these difficult days,” said Brad McLaughlin, CEO of BudTrader.com, in a press release issued Tuesday.

Currently, the company is consulting with its lawyers to ensure that neither the organization nor the government employees who receive marijuana will face legal issues once the government resumes operations.

Mr. McLaughlin also stated that his organization would try to donate “the maximum amount of marijuana allowed by regional laws” to those in need.