California bill to legalize coffeeshops now awaits the governor's signature

California's bill to allow cannabis dispensaries to offer non-cannabis food and beverages on their premises is officially on its way to the governor's desk.

A few days after the Senate's adoption of a slightly modified version of the bill of departure, The California Assembly approved the bill on Monday, by a vote of 48 to 7. The bill now goes to Governor Gavin Newsom.

New possibilities for cannabis dispensaries

The project would allow local authorities to authorize cannabis consumption spaces to prepare and sell non-cannabis food and non-alcoholic beverages in their facilities. The sale of alcoholic beverages in Cannabis cafés would remain prohibited, as would smoking tobacco.

The legislation would also explicitly authorize «live musical or other performances on the premises of a retailer or microbusiness licensed under this section, in the area where cannabis consumption is permitted, and the sale of tickets for such performances».

Retailers and micro-businesses would be allowed to offer freshly prepared food and beverages, but the bill limits the sale of pre-packaged food to retailers, which is in line with regulations that the state's Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) passed late last year.

The bill was revised along the way to specify that the hemp-based foods and beverages are not considered «non-cannabis» products that can be sold in cafés. It also stipulates that non-cannabis products «must be stored and displayed separately and distinctly from all cannabis and cannabis-based products on the premises».

Our Cannabis Cafe bill-allowing local governments to permit legal licensed cannabis retailers to sell non cannabis foods and drinks-is out of the legislature and on to the Governor. If he signs it, it will become law next year.

- Matt Haney (@MattHaneySF) September 11, 2023

In fact, some California businesses had found solutions to allow cannabis consumption on site while making food available to customers - but they were operating in a gray area, partnering with restaurants.

Governor Newsom has not commented publicly on the project, but is a long-standing supporter of cannabis legalization.