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California just approved Amsterdam-style cannabis cafes

Adult-use cannabis use has been legal in the Golden State since 2017, and Californians have undoubtedly been living the high life since then. But now the California Senate has just passed a bill that will make a difference Cannabis lounges in California look much more similar to our European colleagues. The new law, Assembly Bill 1775, takes effect on January 1, 2025.

Something for the munchies

This new regulation now allows sales from licensed pharmacies and cannabis lounges non-psychoactive foods and non-alcoholic drinks to their customers. Previously, California law did not allow these businesses to serve freshly prepared food or drinks, only packaged foods. This significantly limited the expansion of many cannabis companies, which were forced to split their businesses into food services and cannabis services.

A woman eats in a cafe.A woman eats in a cafe.
Photo by Pablo Merchán Montes on Unsplash.

Alternative to nightlife

Plus, so are these cannabis companies It is now permitted to host live music events and performances. Some Californians consider it as great alternative to the alcohol based entertainment industry This is the norm in nightlife right now. Additionally, many in the cannabis industry believe these new measures are a step in the right direction as they allow them to better serve their customers.

A new third room

Even better: this new law will make it possible new type of “third space” arise in California. The term “third space” refers to social environments that exist separate from the two usual social environments of home and work. Unfortunately, such spaces are not as common in the United States as in other countries where these social spaces are more readily available.

A guitar and a banjo are played. A guitar and a banjo are played.
Photo by Matheus Ferrero on Unsplash.

Social experience

The social experience of cannabis cafes like the one in Amsterdam, is something many cannabis business owners have wanted for their own lounges here in California. The current legal business model only allows customers to purchase and consume cannabis in pharmacies. Under the new Assembly Bill 1775, customers can now consume cannabis enjoy a drink and a bite and listen great music or enjoy other entertainment with your fellow smokers. The beginning of January 2025 will herald a relaxing time for Californians.

More information about Assembly Bill 1775 can be found here.