In a move welcomed by the cannabis industry, California Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed AB 1207. This bill, also known as the Cannabis Candy Child Safety Act, aimed to further regulate and restrict packaging and advertising of cannabis products in an effort to protect children. However, after careful consideration, Governor Newsom has decided to return the bill without his signature, effectively vetoing it. This decision comes as a relief to many in the industry who have been concerned about the potential impact of AB 1207 on existing businesses and their bottom line.
What is AB 1207?
AB 1207, also known as the Cannabis Candy Child Safety Act, sought to further regulate packaging and advertising of cannabis products in California. Its main focus was on preventing child ingestion and poisonings by prohibiting the manufacture, distribution, and sale of cannabis or cannabis-related products that are “attractive to children.” This bill would have added additional restrictions on packaging and marketing tactics used by businesses, potentially requiring them to completely rebrand their products in order to comply.
Why Did the Governor Veto It?
Governor Newsom stated that while he appreciates the author’s intent, he is concerned that the definition of “attractive to children” used in this bill is too broad. He believes that the existing regulations and protections already in place for cannabis products are sufficient, and adding more limitations would not significantly contribute to protecting children from exposure to cannabis. Instead, he has directed the Department of Cannabis Control to strengthen and expand existing youth-related cannabis protections through enhanced enforcement measures.
A Win for the California Cannabis Industry
With Governor Newsom’s veto of AB 1207, the California cannabis industry can breathe a sigh of relief. The potential consequences of this bill on already struggling businesses would have been significant, from costly rebranding efforts to fines for non-compliance. This veto is a victory for these businesses and allows them to continue operating without the added burden of further restrictions. It also shows that state officials are taking a thoughtful and practical approach to regulating the cannabis industry, considering both child safety and the needs of businesses.
Overall, Governor Newsom’s decision is a positive step towards a thriving and responsible cannabis market in California. So, it can be seen as a win for the California cannabis industry.
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