In Long Beach, the consumption of marijuana at public events has been a common sight despite its illegality. However, the city is now contemplating a significant shift in its policies by reviving an old ordinance to regulate cannabis use and sales at public gatherings. This move comes as part of a broader effort to align local laws with evolving attitudes towards cannabis.

Potential Cannabis Events and Local Impact

Long Beach lobbyist Mike Murchison is at the forefront of this initiative, working to organize what could be a landmark event: a birthday celebration for Long Beach’s own Snoop Dogg in the fall of 2025. Murchison emphasized the need for legislative change to facilitate such events, stating, “Cannabis has come a long way. People’s viewpoints have changed, so now is the opportunity to do that.” To enable such events, the City Council of Long Beach has started discussions on issuing temporary permits for cannabis sales and consumption at city events. Councilman Al Austin underscored the importance of developing a comprehensive safety plan as the city explores the feasibility of the proposal. “As we explore the feasibility of the proposal, we have to ensure a sound safety plan,” Austin stated.

Regulatory Changes and State Law

Currently, California state law permits the issuance of temporary permits for the sale and consumption of cannabis at specific events, provided local approval is granted. Recently, the state fair in Sacramento made headlines by becoming the first fair in the nation to allow onsite cannabis sales and consumption. Similarly, West Hollywood has issued such permits, and Long Beach is poised to become the second city in Southern California to follow suit. Murchison believes that allowing cannabis events could provide a significant boost to Long Beach’s revenue, particularly in light of recent losses in oil revenue. “With the loss of oil revenue, we’re all trying to come up with creative ideas to bring in revenue to the city,” he noted.

Community Reaction and Next Steps

The proposal has garnered mixed reactions from Long Beach residents. While some residents support the idea, noting that they don’t personally use cannabis but don’t mind if others do, the city council is proceeding cautiously. The council has unanimously voted to advance the proposal, setting 60 days to study the implications and draft an ordinance.

As Long Beach moves forward with its examination of cannabis regulations, the city’s decision could mark a significant shift in how public events are managed and could potentially pave the way for future developments in cannabis legislation across Southern California.