A recent bill passed by the California Assembly could pave the way for the DTLA to become a cannabis haven, reminiscent of Amsterdam.
The bill, known as AB 1775, aims to level the playing field for California’s legal cannabis industry, which has struggled to compete with the thriving black market. If approved, the legislation would allow the local justification to authorize cannabis clubs to serve non-cannabis food and beverages.
While the bill has garnered support from many in the cannabis industry, it has also faced opposition from some who argue that the dank poses potential hazards for the public along with health risks.
Cannabis advocates see the bill as a huge step forward, helping to reduce the demand for illicit cannabis products, which they expressed works wonders for all types of health ailments, from chronic pain to cancer.
DTLA dispensary co-founder of Green Qween and DTLA Proud gave this statement to DT Weekly.
“Green Qween proudly stands behind AB 1775! This bill is needed for the legal cannabis industry to challenge the illicit market and help to reduce stigma along the way.
It’s time to have more venues across the state that offer vibrant and social spaces to enjoy cannabis while socializing over a meal, drinks, or live entertainment.
Having spent more than 20 years curating queer nightlife in L.A., I’ve seen firsthand how social spaces can transform lives and build community. It’s now time to create these spaces with cannabis and I’ve been ready for this moment since the start. Let’s unite behind this bill and show how California is a leader in on-premise cannabis consumption!”
–Andrés Rigal, co-founder of Green Qween
Sencimillia being healthy or harmful is a decades-long question; however, somewhere in the cloud of smoke lies the truth. And one thing is for certain: despite refer madness, and being chastised by those calling Mary Jane the Devil’s Weed, marijuana advocates aren’t giving up their fight to decriminalize the flower any time soon.
If the AB 1775 bill already passed by the House survives the Senate, it will end up on Governor Newsom’s desk. If the governor signs the bill into law, it could have a significant impact on DTLA’s local economy.
With the governors signature and enough community input, AB 1775 would give LA City Council the final say, with Kevin de Leon or Ysabel Jurado, voting in favor of a cannabis revolution in DTLA.
Cannabis tourism has already become a major source of revenue for cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and in countries like Vancouver, where high times have reduced the stigma associated with cannabis use and promoted a more inclusive and tolerant society.
With one of the largest tourism industries in the world, the possibility of DTLA becoming the new Amsterdam is a real thing. Imagine sipping coffee at Green Qween or having an omelet at Stiizy. Stay tuned.
