California Moves Closer to Legalizing Cannabis Cafés

LOS ANGELES- California’s legislative efforts to allow cannabis cafés took a significant step forward as Assembly Bill 1775, championed by Representative Matt Haney (D), passed through a second Assembly committee. The bill received favorable votes in the Committee on Governmental Organization by a margin of 13 to 2, following an earlier approval from the Committee on Business and Professions with a 14 to 2 vote. It now proceeds to a final reading before the full Assembly.

AB 1775 proposes enabling local jurisdictions to permit the sale of non-cannabis food and beverages at licensed cannabis retail spaces and microbusinesses where cannabis consumption is allowed. The legislation also seeks to authorize live entertainment in these venues. Importantly, the bill clarifies that these provisions would not extend to the preparation or sale of industrial hemp products.

Representative Haney argues that the bill would diversify the traditional “dispensary” model of cannabis businesses, enhancing their viability and contributing to local economies by drawing tourists to revitalized downtown areas. He advocates for the social and communal consumption of cannabis, noting that existing regulations barring the sale of freshly prepared food in cannabis lounges are unnecessarily restrictive.

This legislative push comes despite a previous veto by Governor Gavin Newsom on a similar proposal in October. However, with modifications and ongoing discussions, there is renewed optimism for the passage of this measure, potentially transforming how Californians can socially engage with and consume cannabis.