Long Beach is on the verge of becoming a pioneer in Southern California by potentially allowing cannabis consumption at public events. The city council’s recent discussions could pave the way for a new ordinance, possibly in time for Snoop Dogg’s 54th birthday celebration.
A New Era for Cannabis in Long Beach
The conversation around public cannabis consumption in Long Beach began in 2019 but was stalled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, with renewed interest, the city council is revisiting the idea, aiming to create a framework for permitting cannabis use at public gatherings.
Pam Chotiswatdi, a cannabis educator with Long Beach Green Room, expressed enthusiasm about the revival of this initiative. “Bringing this birthday party picked it up where we left off,” she noted, referring to Snoop Dogg’s upcoming birthday celebration.
- Key Points:
- The city council has commissioned a 60-day study to explore the feasibility of cannabis consumption permits.
- The goal is to create a regulatory framework that benefits both the city and local businesses.
Councilmember Al Austin emphasized the economic potential of this move, stating, “We are looking to put Long Beach in a place to win.” The initiative is seen as a way to attract more visitors and enhance the city’s reputation as an entertainment destination.
Learning from Recent Successes
Long Beach is not alone in exploring cannabis consumption at public events. Last month, the state fair in Sacramento made headlines by allowing cannabis to be sold and consumed on-site, marking a historic first for such events in the country. The fair attracted over 80,000 attendees, showcasing the demand for cannabis-friendly environments.
Austin remarked, “It shows California is a forward-thinking state. Long Beach is a forward-thinking city, and this is an opportunity to make Long Beach an entertainment destination.” The success of the state fair serves as a model for Long Beach as it considers similar measures.
The Future of Cannabis Lounges
Local cannabis businesses, such as Green Room, are optimistic about the potential for cannabis lounges where patrons can gather and consume cannabis freely. This could create a vibrant social scene and further integrate cannabis culture into the community.
- Potential Benefits:
- Increased tourism and foot traffic for local businesses.
- Establishment of cannabis lounges for social consumption.
The city council is expected to finalize its discussions and potentially draft an ordinance by the end of the year. If approved, Long Beach could set a precedent for other cities in California and beyond, leading the way in cannabis regulation and public consumption.
As the city moves forward, the outcome of this initiative could significantly impact the local economy and the cultural landscape of Long Beach, making it a notable player in the evolving cannabis industry.
