California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill on Monday that paves the way for cities to open Amsterdam-style cannabis cafes.
The law takes effect Jan. 1. Cafes could open early 2025, with approval from local governments.
“Lots of people want to enjoy legal cannabis in the company of others,” said Assembly member Matt Haney (D-San Francisco), who authored the bill. “And many people want to do that while sipping coffee, eating a sandwich, or listening to music. That is now finally legal in California and there’s no doubt that cannabis cafes will bring massive economic, cultural and creative opportunities and benefits to our state. California is once again leading the way in supporting legal, safe cannabis businesses and culture.”
Amsterdam popularized cannabis cafes by allowing cannabis retailers to sell coffee, non-alcoholic drinks and food.
AB 1775 allows local governments in California to permit cannabis retailers to sell food, drinks and even tickets to live events hosted at their stores. It aims to create a more social experience to help grow California's cannabis culture and industry.
Newsom vetoed a previous version of the bill last year, saying he wanted the bill to include more protections for cannabis workers. In his signing message this year, Newsom emphasized that local governments should prioritize worker safety and minimize public health risks.
Newsom noted the revised bill protects employees' choice to wear a respiration mask, paid for by the employer, and requires employees to receive guidance on the risks of secondhand cannabis smoke.
"If adequate protections are not established at the local level, it could necessitate reconsideration of this limited expansion," Newsom wrote.
Haney said the 2024 version of the bill "levels the playing field" for California's cannabis industry to thrive amid a booming black market.
“This couldn’t be happening at a better time for California. Our downtowns are struggling, and new, innovative businesses, especially in hospitality, nightlife and the arts, are among the best ways to reinvigorate them. California should be excited for the jobs, culture, and tourism that cannabis cafes are going to bring to our state,” said Haney.
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