Coming to Wash., Colo.: Pot Vending Machines?

Pot vending machines have been around for a few years now in medical marijuana states, but thanks to Colorado and Washington recently legalizing the drug, at least one such vending machine manufacturer is looking to bring the machines to those states, reports NBC News. "One day we envision these machines to be accessed, when it's allowed, 24 hours a day," says the founder of Medbox, a leading manufacturer.

For now, machines like Medbox are mostly used inside medical marijuana dispensaries to track and control sales, prevent theft, and ensure local laws are being followed. Before the pot vending machine business can expand, Colorado and Washington will need to create the regulatory framework for the pot market. And some restrictions—Washington will require pot to be sold from inside a retail store—might mean the machines could be used inside a store, but not "on the street corner," says a spokesperson for the state's Liquor Control Board. (More vending machine stories.)