As the cannabis industry continues to flourish in California, Santa Monica’s two cannabis stores are advocating for extended operating hours to better serve their customers. With the state allowing retail cannabis outlets to remain open until 10:00 p.m., local regulations currently restrict these businesses to closing by 8:00 p.m., a limitation that many believe is counterproductive.
The Case for Extended Hours
The legalization of recreational cannabis in California since 2018 has led to a growing demand for cannabis products. Many consumers turn to these products for various reasons, including stress relief, sleep aid, and pain management. However, the current closing time of 8:00 p.m. poses challenges for those with demanding work schedules and long commutes.
- Current Hours of Operation:
- Harvest Santa Monica: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Monday-Saturday), 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Sunday)
- Local Cannabis Company: Similar hours
Steven Ratino, a representative from Harvest Santa Monica, shared insights on the impact of the current hours. He noted that their other location in LA County, which operates until 10:00 p.m., experiences a significant increase in business during the later hours. “People are rushing in at the last minute,” Ratino explained, emphasizing that the current hours do not allow for an optimal shopping experience.
Community Perspectives
Local residents have expressed their support for extended hours. Jonathan Ty, a long-time Santa Monica resident and customer of Harvest, highlighted the convenience of having a cannabis store in the city. “Before Harvest opened, if you wanted something to help you sleep, you would have to drive down to Venice,” he said. The desire to keep business local is strong, with many customers preferring to shop in Santa Monica rather than travel to neighboring cities.
The potential economic benefits of extending store hours are also noteworthy. Ratino estimated that staying open until 10:00 p.m. could increase tax revenue for the city by 20 to 30%, translating to approximately $800 to $1,500 in daily taxes. This additional revenue could be a significant boost for local government, especially as the city navigates its budgetary needs.
City Council’s Role and Future Considerations
Mayor Phil Brock has indicated a willingness to bring the issue of extended hours to the City Council. He emphasized the importance of developing a social equity plan that ensures diverse community involvement in the cannabis industry. “I think that as our discussions move forward on cannabis licensing in Santa Monica with a social equity component, we will also look at the establishment of a lounge or a restaurant bar with cannabis,” Brock stated.
The recent legalization of cannabis lounges by Governor Newsom adds another layer to the conversation. As Santa Monica considers its cannabis policies, the potential for lounges could create new opportunities for local businesses and enhance the community’s cannabis culture.
A Step Towards Progress
The push for extended hours at Santa Monica’s cannabis stores reflects a growing demand for accessibility and convenience in the cannabis market. As local officials weigh the benefits of longer operating hours, the community’s voice will play a crucial role in shaping the future of cannabis retail in the city. With the potential for increased tax revenue and enhanced customer experiences, the conversation around cannabis hours is just beginning.