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420 FILE - Governor Gavin Newsom has signed AB 1775, a landmark bill that paves the way for licensed cannabis lounges in California to serve non-alcoholic beverages, food, and host live events like concerts, pending local approval. The law, championed by Assemblymember Matt Haney and supported by Cal NORML, seeks to expand social cannabis use and bolster the industry by giving cannabis lounges a more café-like atmosphere where consumers can socialize, enjoy food, and entertainment, similar to traditional cafés.
Enhancing Social Cannabis Use Matt Haney, who chairs the Select Committee on Downtown Recovery, emphasized that many consumers want to enjoy cannabis in social settings, akin to enjoying coffee or food with friends. Before AB 1775, consumption was confined to licensed cannabis lounges that were limited in the amenities they could offer. Haney said, “There’s no reason, economically or from a health or safety standpoint, that we should prevent cannabis lounges from offering a coffee or sandwich.”
Worker Safety and Local Oversight The bill incorporates key worker protection provisions. A previous version of the bill, AB 374, was vetoed last year because it lacked sufficient measures to protect workers from exposure to secondhand smoke. This time, with support from the United Commercial and Food Workers, the bill ensures that food preparation and smoking areas are separated to protect cannabis lounge workers. Governor Newsom’s signing statement also urged local governments to prioritize worker safety in their oversight of the lounges.
Support from the Cannabis Community and Hollywood AB 1775 had widespread support from the cannabis community, with over 700 letters sent to lawmakers and the Governor. Cannabis entrepreneurs Woody Harrelson and Whoopi Goldberg lent their voices to the effort, recording videos urging Governor Newsom to sign the bill. Comedian and cannabis activist Bill Maher also joined in calling for its passage.
Impact on California’s Cannabis Industry The passage of AB 1775 is expected to significantly expand the state’s cannabis sector by offering consumers more engaging social spaces. It will create jobs, encourage tourism, and provide a boost to the industry by allowing cannabis lounges to function more like traditional cafés. This, in turn, will benefit medical patients and recreational users alike, particularly those who rely on cannabis for pain and symptom management.
A Growing Trend Nationwide California joins six other states that allow food and beverage service in cannabis consumption lounges. With this new law, the state aims to foster a thriving, socially-centered cannabis culture that supports small businesses while maintaining health and safety standards.
The bill’s passage is seen as a victory for both the cannabis industry and consumers, creating more opportunities for growth and community connection within the legal framework of cannabis use in California.
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