LOS ANGELES- Los Angeles County has approved a new initiative aimed at reducing the visibility of unlicensed cannabis dispensaries on major online platforms such as Google and Yelp. The motion, introduced by Supervisor Lindsey Horvath and passed by the Board of Supervisors, seeks to address the ongoing issues posed by illegal cannabis operations in the region.
The county is directing multiple agencies to explore methods for preventing unlicensed cannabis advertising, particularly in unincorporated areas. This move comes amid concerns that illegal dispensaries are undermining licensed businesses, posing health risks to consumers, and contributing to lost tax revenue.
The motion also urges online platforms to voluntarily stop promoting unlicensed cannabis dispensaries, which make up a significant portion of cannabis retailers in Los Angeles County. According to the California Department of Cannabis Control, only 384 of the approximately 1,500 dispensaries in the county are properly licensed.
The effort aligns with similar actions taken in other states, such as New York, as local governments seek to mitigate the impact of illegal cannabis markets through online regulation.
