San Francisco Bill Would Allow Cannabis Retailers to Host Events and Operate Kitchens 

Assembly Member Matt Haney has sponsored a bill in San Francisco, California, that would remove some of the biggest restrictions on cannabis consumption lounges. The proposed Assembly Bill 374 would allow marijuana retailers to operate kitchens and host live music events, making it easier for people to enjoy legal cannabis in the company of others.

Haney stated that many people want to enjoy cannabis while drinking coffee, eating a scone, or listening to music. The proposed legislation would allow retailers to serve prepared foods and coffee, making it easier for customers to enjoy the drug with others. However, it is important to note that coffee shops will not be allowed to sell cannabis. Instead, the bill would allow cannabis shops to sell coffee.

Currently, California has a few dozen consumption lounges across the state, but roughly half of them are in the Bay Area. Under California’s strict rules, licensees are prohibited from preparing and serving food and beverages in-house, which makes generating revenue at consumption lounges a significant challenge. Licensees are only allowed to sell cannabis and accessories or rent smoking devices.

In addition, specific consumption lounge licenses are not available in the state, so applicants can apply only for retail permits. This means that most consumption lounges in California only act as marijuana smoking rooms. Some lounges have partnered with neighboring cafes and restaurants to deliver food and beverages to consumers in the lounge, typically ordered through QR codes.

In conclusion, Assembly Bill 374, if passed, would remove some of the biggest restrictions on cannabis consumption lounges in California. The bill would make it easier for licensees to generate revenue by allowing them to operate kitchens and host events, making it easier for people to enjoy legal cannabis in a social setting.