California Governor Gavin Newsom to Decide on 17 Cannabis and Psychedelic Bills

SACRAMENTO, — As the California State Legislature session drew to a close on September 14, Governor Gavin Newsom received over 17 bills related to cannabis or psychedelics, all waiting for his potential signature. These bills encompass a diverse range of proposals which the Governor can sign, veto, or leave unsigned, letting them pass into law without his endorsement.

While Gov. Newsom has previously indicated his support for both cannabis and psychedelics, his stance on these specific bills remains unknown. He has until October 14 to make a decision.

Here’s an overview of some of the significant bills:

• SB-51: Would enable social equity applicants to apply for or renew their provisional licenses until January 1, 2031.
• SB-58: Proposes the decriminalization of specific hallucinogenic substances, including psilocybin and DMT. Senator Scott Wiener, who spearheaded the bill, emphasized its potential therapeutic benefits, especially for veterans and first responders dealing with PTSD.
• SB-302: Seeks to extend medical cannabis use in healthcare facilities to anyone over 65 seeking to treat chronic illnesses.
• SB-540: Mandates the creation of an educational brochure for first-time cannabis consumers.
• SB-622: Introduces a new system for identifying cannabis products, potentially shifting to a more eco-friendly digital tagging system.
• SB-700: Aims to prevent employers from inquiring about an applicant’s personal cannabis consumption.
• SB-753: Addresses environmental concerns, making it a felony to grow more than six cannabis plants if it results in significant environmental harm.
• AB-374: Advocates for “Amsterdam-style” cannabis cafes, allowing legal cannabis consumption alongside non-cannabis food and drinks.
• AB-623: Adjusts lab testing standards for low-dose edibles.
• AB-993: Seeks to expand the representation within the state’s existing cannabis task force.
• AB-1021: Allows healthcare professionals to prescribe rescheduled Schedule I substances, including cannabis.
• AB-1207: Proposes stricter packaging definitions to ensure products are not appealing to children.

Additional bills address licensing nuances, penalties for illegal operations, and financial regulations concerning illegal cannabis cultivation.

While Gov. Newsom’s decisions on these bills are eagerly awaited, it’s worth noting his recent legislative actions. Since July, he has signed three cannabis-related bills, including SB-250, AB-128, and SB-756, which respectively address immunity for certain drug tests, licensure for cannabis event organizers, and empowerment of the California State Water Board to counter illegal cannabis cultivation.

California, known for leading the nation in progressive drug policies, stands at another crucial juncture. The choices made in the coming weeks could further reshape its regulatory landscape and influence other states considering similar measures.