California continues to relax its rules on cannabis. This state of the United States has just adopted a law which will authorize cafes dedicated to this drug, like what is done in the Netherlands.
The text, promulgated Monday by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, will come into force on January 1. It authorizes businesses selling cannabis to serve hot meals and non-alcoholic drinks. Something so far prohibited despite the legalization of marijuana.
Recreational use legalized since 2016
This decision is a significant change for the local sector. California legalized the recreational use of cannabis in 2016, but dispensaries that sell it remain far less popular than the black market.
“Right now, our small cannabis businesses are struggling to compete with illegal drug sellers who don’t follow the law and don’t pay taxes,” explained the law’s author, Matt Haney. , welcoming its adoption. “For the legal cannabis market to survive and thrive in California, we must allow them to adapt, innovate and offer products and experiences that customers want,” added the local parliamentarian. According to him, having cafes dedicated to cannabis “will help reduce the illegal market”.
Near Los Angeles, the small town of West Hollywood has been calling for this change in legislation for several years. This progressive enclave hopes to compete with Amsterdam and did not wait for the law to start offering “cannabis lounges” in a dedicated village, where the dispensaries are attached to separate bars or restaurants. The new law will put an end to this gray area and will give all California merchants the opportunity to adopt a clear model.
Already “cannabis lounges” in Nevada
Opponents of the text, however, are concerned about its effect on health, in this pioneering state which has banned smoking in bars and restaurants for almost 30 years. The governor also vetoed a first bill last year because of these health concerns. The version approved on Monday therefore provides for additional measures so that employees of these cafes are authorized to wear masks and are informed of the risks associated with passive inhalation of cannabis smoke.
California, however, is not the first American state to authorize “cannabis lounges”. Nevada, for example, already authorizes such establishments. The first in Las Vegas opened last February.