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In a bid to boost vaccination numbers, officials in the US state of Washington are allowing marijuana retailers to host their own vaccine clinics and to offer a single, pre-rolled cannabis cigarette to anyone aged over 21 who gets their jab there.

The scheme, announced on Monday, is the latest of many vaccine incentives being offered in the west coast state, including free pints of beer, sports tickets and prize money.

Back in 2012, Washington and Colorado became the first states to legalise the adult use of cannabis, and regulated sales began two years later. It's been a major source of tax revenue for Washington state, bringing in over $395m (£280m) in 2019.

Unlike purveyors of alcohol, cannabis retailers are being given tax breaks on the joints they give away. But the high-minded scheme is set to expire 12 July – meaning many customers will be unable to return for a second dose.

Many businesses also face legal hurdles since their industry is still illegal at a federal level.

Daniela Bernhard, the co-owner of Uncle Ike’s cannabis store in Seattle, told AP news agency that their efforts to host a vaccine clinic had been rejected by two healthcare providers.

A spokesperson for Spokane Regional Health District, a local public health agency, also told AP that they wouldn't be able to provide marijuana businesses with any vaccines because of concerns that it would jeopardise their own federal funding.

Ms Bernhard said she was “disappointed that our legal and heavily regulated sector continues to be treated differently than our peer sectors”.

“If we are trusting adults driving with their vaccination cards to get a pint of beer and then responsibly get to their next destination, we can also trust that adults will pick up a joint and enjoy it later in a legal setting,” she added.