On October 2nd, California Governor Gavin Newsom officially signed a groundbreaking bill that paves the way for Amsterdam-style cannabis coffee shops across the state. This new legislation permits consumers not only to purchase cannabis but also to savor fresh food, beverages, and live music—all in one vibrant location. The law is set to take effect on January 1st of next year.
Assembly Bill 1775 grants local governments in California the power to authorize licensed cannabis retailers to serve freshly prepared food and drinks on-site, as well as to host live music events.
In an interview, Assemblymember Matt Haney, who introduced the bill, expressed enthusiasm about the new opportunities this legislation creates. “Many people want the ability to legally enjoy cannabis with others. This has finally been legalized in California. Without a doubt, cannabis coffee shops will bring significant benefits to the state’s economy, culture, and creativity,” he said.
Currently, cannabis retailers are restricted to selling only pre-packaged food and beverages, such as candies and bottled water. Critics argue that these limitations hinder the growth of small cannabis businesses, making the new law a step toward greater freedom in the industry.
Governor Newsom had previously vetoed an earlier version of this bill last year due to concerns it could undermine California’s long-standing smoke-free workplace initiatives.
Senator Benjamin Allen, a co-sponsor of the new legislation, highlighted that several amendments have been added to address public health considerations. These include requirements for coffee shops to post warnings indicating the presence of cannabis, assessments related to secondhand smoke and workplace hazards, and recommendations for local governments to develop guidelines for ventilation and filtration.
Haney also emphasized that the passage of AB 1775 could significantly impact the illegal cannabis trade. According to his office, California’s legal cannabis sales reached $4 billion in 2020, while the illegal market exceeded $8 billion in the same year.
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