California Bill to Allow Cannabis Cafes Moves to Gov.

The California Assembly on Monday passed a bill to allow cannabis cafes in the state, moving it to Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) for final approval. The measure passed the Assembly 66-9 after being approved last week 34-3 by the state Senate.  

Under the measure, local jurisdictions could allow cannabis retailers to prepare and serve non-cannabis food and beverages, and to hold and sell tickets to live musical or other performances, “in the area of the premises” where consumption of cannabis and cannabis goods is authorized, according to a legislative summary. The summary notes that, under the law, cannabis retailers cannot prepare or sell hemp products, retailers with suspended licenses are not allowed to engage in activities permitted under the bill, and all non-cannabis food and beverages present on the premises of a retailer must “be stored and displayed separately and distinctly from all cannabis and cannabis products” present at the site.  

Some cities already allow social cannabis use; however, they are not permitted to sell non-cannabis food or drinks.   

The law also prohibits alcohol from being served at the cafes or events that allow cannabis consumption, and that the events must also prohibit tobacco use, according to the bill text. 

If approved by Newsom, the measure would take effect next year.