There’s some big news in California regarding the cannabis industry and its regulations. On Sept. 18, 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom signed ten new laws into being that pertain to cannabis, cannabis products, the rights of cannabis patients and the rights of those who have been previously convicted of cannabis crimes.
However, one of the bills he signed, SB 1326, is making a lot of big waves in the industry – although it’s important to understand exactly what the passage of this law does (and does not) actually mean.
What is SB 1326?
Adding a new chapter to the state’s Business and Professions Code, SB 1326 permits interstate commerce involving cannabis between California and other states that have also legalized its cultivation, production, sale and possession.
California has long been at the forefront of the cannabis industry as a whole, and this bill is designed to keep it that way. On its surface, it allows California cannabis companies of all kinds a chance to expand their market and remain competitive with companies nationwide.
On the other hand, SB 1326 does very little to change things right now. Essentially, this is a trigger law that will only go into practical effect once the federal government either officially decriminalizes marijuana at a federal level (which is widely expected to happen at some point in the future) or officially agrees that commerce between states that have already decriminalized cannabis won’t be prosecuted under federal laws.
With all the new cannabis laws that have recently been passed, it can be exceptionally difficult to stay informed – and that can make it even harder to remain competitive. If you own a cannabis business, having legal guidance close at hand is essential to your prosperity and future.