Table of Contents

California Cannabis Laws

Dani Walton
Dani Walton
California cannabis laws

California Cannabis Laws have revolutionized the way marijuana is perceived and regulated in the state. Whether you’re a curious individual or a potential user, this article will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the laws surrounding cannabis in California.

What are California Cannabis Laws?

California Cannabis Laws refer to the set of regulations that govern the cultivation, distribution, sale, and use of cannabis within the state. These laws aim to ensure responsible consumption, prioritize public health and safety, and establish a thriving legal cannabis market.

Key Points of California Cannabis Laws

Age Restrictions: California Cannabis Laws permit the use of marijuana for adults aged 21 and older. It is important to respect and adhere to this age restriction to avoid legal consequences.

Recreational Use: Under these laws, adults can enjoy cannabis for recreational purposes within the limits set by the legislation. However, it is crucial to understand the restrictions on consumption in public spaces and driving under the influence.

Medicinal Use: California Cannabis Laws also recognize the therapeutic benefits of marijuana. Patients with qualifying medical conditions can access cannabis through a valid recommendation from a licensed healthcare professional.

Licensing and Regulation: The laws establish a robust licensing and regulatory framework for businesses involved in the cultivation, distribution, and sale of cannabis products. These regulations ensure quality control, product safety, and responsible business practices.

Key Considerations for Users

Purchase and Possession Limits: California Cannabis Laws outline specific limits for purchasing and possessing cannabis. It’s essential to stay informed about these limits to avoid any legal complications.

Consumption Guidelines: Understanding the rules regarding where and when cannabis can be consumed is crucial. Public consumption is generally prohibited, and it is important to respect the rights of others and follow designated consumption areas.

Responsible Use: Cannabis affects individuals differently, and responsible consumption is paramount. It’s important to be aware of the potential effects, start with low doses, and avoid driving or operating machinery under the influence.

Resources and Support

Local Dispensaries: California has numerous licensed cannabis dispensaries where you can obtain legal and regulated products. Ensure to choose reputable establishments that prioritize safety and quality.

Educational Programs: Various educational resources and programs are available to help users navigate the world of cannabis. These programs provide valuable insights into responsible use, product information, and harm reduction strategies.

What is the  Bill (AB) 2188?

A new bill, AB 2188, passed by the California legislature and heading to the governor’s desk, may soon prohibit employers in California from firing or refusing to hire employees based on their off-duty use of marijuana. The bill would also make it illegal for employers to discriminate against individuals who test positive for non-psychoactive cannabis metabolites during drug screening tests. These provisions will be added to the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), the state’s employment anti-discrimination law.

Assembly Bill (AB) No. 2188 would amend California’s employment antidiscrimination law, the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), to prohibit employers from discriminating against employees or adult job applicants based on their off-duty use of marijuana. The bill would also protect individuals who fail drug tests due to the presence of non-psychoactive cannabis metabolites in their urine, blood, hair, or bodily fluids. However, the legislation would not allow employees to use cannabis while on the job or impair their work performance. Some exceptions to the provisions include federal contractors, recipients of federal funding, and certain occupations that are required by law to be tested for controlled substances.

California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) could be amended by Assembly Bill (AB) No. 2188 to prevent employers from discriminating against employees or adult job applicants based on their use of marijuana outside of work. AB 2188 also provides protection to individuals who fail drug tests due to the presence of non-psychoactive cannabis metabolites in their bodily fluids. However, the bill clarifies that employees cannot use cannabis during work or impair their job performance. AB 2188 has some exceptions, such as federal contractors, recipients of federal funding, and certain occupations required by law to undergo controlled substance testing.

What is the Bill (AB) 2188
What is the Bill (AB) 2188

AB 2188 prohibits the use of metabolite-based testing for marijuana, making any disciplinary action taken based on the results of such a test a violation under FEHA. However, there are concerns about the feasibility and cost of alternative tests such as saliva and impairment-based testing, which are relatively new and may not be reliable in detecting marijuana use, especially when consumed in edible form.

The California Chamber of Commerce expressed concern that the bill may limit or eliminate pre-employment testing for marijuana and make discipline for reasonable suspicion impairment more difficult, leading to increased litigation. AB 2188 is currently under committee review in the California Assembly and must pass both houses of the legislature before it can be signed into law by the governor before September 30, 2022.

Starting in 2024, AB 1288 will prohibit employment discrimination based on two grounds

 1) the use of cannabis outside of work and away from the workplace.

 2) the presence of nonpsychoactive cannabis metabolites in employer-required drug screening tests. However, the law does not prohibit employers from restricting employees’ marijuana use or testing for it entirely. Rather, it protects against discrimination based on off-duty and off-site cannabis use.

The first protection under AB 1288 is straightforward: employers cannot discriminate against individuals for using cannabis outside of work and away from the workplace. This provision gives legal protection to such use, whereas the use of other legal products or substances is not legally protected against employment discrimination.

Starting in 2024, AB 1288 will prohibit employment discrimination based on two grounds
Starting in 2024, AB 1288 will prohibit employment discrimination based on two grounds

The second prohibition of AB 1288 targets tests that detect nonpsychoactive cannabis metabolites, which remain detectable for weeks, long after the psychoactive effect or impairment ends. The new law states that metabolites do not indicate impairment and prohibits discrimination based on the presence of these metabolites.

Instead, the law suggests that employers use impairment tests that measure an employee’s baseline performance or tests that identify the presence of THC in bodily fluids to identify impairment. AB 1288 also allows employers to rely on scientifically valid pre-employment drug screening methods that do not detect nonpsychoactive cannabis metabolites, and to consider positive results for active THC levels or current impairment.

Additionally, AB 1288 prohibits employees from possessing or using cannabis while on or affected by work. It does not affect the rights of employers to maintain a drug-free workplace, as established by state or federal law.

AB 1288 also excludes employees in the building and construction trades, those who require federal security clearance, and those subject to state or federal laws that require drug testing as a condition of employment.

In addition, AB 1288 affords the same protection against discrimination based on off-duty cannabis use outside of the workplace that it does on the basis of race, religion, sex, disability, and other protected characteristics. It applies to employers with five or more employees and can be enforced by filing a discrimination complaint with the California Department of Civil Rights. A person may also request a right to sue letter to file a lawsuit in court.

Regulation for employers

But this regulation is not the only one in the USA because AB 1288 joins six other states to protect the use of cannabis outside of working hours from employment discrimination. California employers should review their policies and practices in light of the law, which will prohibit employment discrimination based on cannabis use outside of the workplace.

However, employers can still prohibit the use of marijuana during work hours and on their premises, as well as maintain a drug- and smoke-free workplace. AB 1288 should prohibit any adverse action for off-duty medical marijuana use or based on a drug test showing no psychoactive metabolites of cannabis or current impairment.

Employers can still perform drug tests, but must use tests that detect current impaired or active levels of THC. Employers should seek the advice of their employment attorney regarding matters related to AB 1288.

Regulation for employers
Regulation for employers

On the other hand, employers have 15 months to get ready for the new law that limits adverse employment actions based on off-duty marijuana use. To comply with the new law, employers should assess the risks of not testing for marijuana or using other “disability tests” referred to in the law.

Employers who will continue to test for marijuana should ensure that their testing methods detect active THC levels, not non-psychoactive metabolites. Employers should communicate expectations and the testing methods used to test workers. Otherwise, even valid tests for active THC may be subject to challenge by applicants and employees.

Employers should also update their drug testing policies to comply with the new law and affirm that marijuana use, possession, or impairment in the workplace is prohibited. To prepare, employers should consult with their employment counsel.

How can employers test for active marijuana metabolites or impairment in employees?

The main issue raised by the new law is which types of tests an employer can use to make employment decisions related to cannabis. Hair and urine tests detect cannabis that is no longer active in the body, since hair tests detect cannabis use from several weeks or months prior that has become a part of the hair follicle, and urine tests identify metabolized THC that is being eliminated.

On the other hand, saliva/oral fluid and blood tests can detect psychoactive THC molecules that are currently present in the individual’s system, but only if they are specifically designed and manufactured to do so.

Marijuana Metabolism
Marijuana Metabolism

The new law suggests that “impairment tests” could be used by employers to determine if workers are impaired, but it does not provide details about what these tests would be, if they are validated, and if they are appropriate for use in an employment setting.

These tests might be measuring dexterity or reasoning ability and comparing it against an individual’s baseline performance, but they are not widely available or used as employment tools at this time. For employers to successfully use these tests, they would need to validate their effectiveness and ensure they do not have an adverse impact on individuals with disabilities or other protected characteristics.

However, most employers will likely continue to rely on tests of employees’ and applicants’ body fluids to ensure they are not impaired by the use of cannabis at work.

Three cannabis strain perfect for not have problem in the job

Here we will have to see which are 3 of the best recommendations for cannabis genetics that you can grow at home and that will surely not cause you problems at work, since their THC levels are low or medium. Consequently, the concentration of cannabinoids that may remain in your body may be lower.

Although, we always recommend consuming enough water (not soft drinks), fruits and vegetables and also reducing or eliminating the consumption of meats and foods rich in fat, to eliminate THC and cannabinoids from the body more quickly and optimally. Remember, that playing sports is essential to have a good elimination of the compounds from the grass.

Maxigom Auto

Maxigom Auto is an autoflowering cannabis strain known for its medium THC content 14%-16% and ability to produce abundant yields, indoors from 1.47-1.64 oz/ft2  and outdoors 10-17 oz/plant. Its buds are covered in a sticky layer of resin, making it a potent and high-quality variety.

Under optimal growing conditions, Maxigom Auto can produce a significant amount of buds in a relatively short period, needing only 8-9 weeks. variety that adapts well to different growing techniques and can be grown in small spaces.

Maxigom Auto
Maxigom Auto

The effects of Maxigom Auto are mainly relaxing and euphoric, making it ideal for those seeking a happy and uplifting high. Users have reported feelings of joy, creativity, and mental focus. In terms of flavors and aromas, Maxigom Auto has a sweet and fruity profile with hints of lemon, earthy and spices.

The best growing techniques for Maxigom Auto include using high-quality substrates such as soil or coco, and maintaining a balanced pH in the nutrient solution. It is also important to provide good ventilation and adequate light for optimal production.

Lemon OG Fast Version

Lemon OG Fast Version is a highly sought-after cannabis strain known for its ability to deliver large yields in a short amount of time. It is a cross between Super Lemon Haze and Captain Krypt OG, two popular strains with impressive genetics. One of the reasons why Lemon OG Fast Version is so great for gardeners looking to produce big harvests quickly is because of its fast flowering time.

This strain only takes about 60-70 full flower, making it an ideal choice for those who want to get their buds to market quickly. Lemon OG Fast Version is also known for its medium THC content, which can range from 14%-18%. This potency provides users with a powerful and long-lasting high, which can induce feelings of euphoria, happiness, and relaxation.

Lemon OG Fast Version
Lemon OG Fast Version

The buds of Lemon OG Fast Version are also highly prized for their delightful aroma and flavor. The strain is characterized by a lemony scent with hints of earthy and diesel undertones. The taste is similarly citrusy, with a touch of sweetness that rounds out the flavor profile. Lemon OG Fast Version is also a great choice for gardeners in areas with humid climates and short summers.

It is highly resistant to mold and mildew, making it a robust and reliable choice for outdoor grows. In terms of yields, Lemon OG Fast Version can produce up to 2.14 oz/ft2 when grown indoors, while outdoor plants can yield up to 28 oz/plant. Overall, Lemon OG Fast Version is an excellent choice for gardeners who want to produce large harvests of high-quality buds in a short amount of time.

In California, the California Cannabis Laws allow for the legal use of cannabis strains like Lemon OG Fast Version. This particular strain, renowned for its citrusy aroma and relaxing effects, meets the quality and safety standards set forth by the regulations. Adult users, in compliance with the California Cannabis Laws, can enjoy the benefits of Lemon OG Fast Version without legal concerns. Always remember to educate yourself on the restrictions and limitations imposed by the California Cannabis Laws for a responsible and legal consumption experience.

Chocolope Kush Regular

Chocolope Kush Regular is a hybrid cannabis strain characterized by THC levels ranging between 15% and 18%. Its effects are mainly cerebral, euphoric, and stimulating (happy), with a relaxing touch on the body. It is a good option for gardeners who want to produce their own seeds because it is easy to grow, has a good yield, and is resistant to diseases. Indoors, harvests of between 1.47 and 1.97 oz/ft2 can be obtained, while outdoors, yields of between 12 and 14 oz/plant can be obtained.

Chocolope Kush Regular
Chocolope Kush Regular

The best time of the year to start growing this genetic strain outdoors is in the spring, around April or May, when temperatures start to increase and days are longer. Chocolope Kush Regular is characterized by a flavor and aroma with notes of chocolate, coffee, and spices. The buds are large, dense, and covered in trichomes. The flowering time of Chocolope Kush Regular is around 9 to 10 weeks, and the best time to harvest it outdoors in the Northern Hemisphere is in late September or early October.

In the realm of California Cannabis Laws, one strain that stands out is Chocolope Kush Regular. This unique and delightful hybrid brings together the flavors of chocolate and coffee, offering a truly indulgent experience. Thanks to the progressive regulations, adult users in California can legally explore the wonders of Chocolope Kush Regular while abiding by the state’s cannabis laws.

The California Cannabis Laws provide a framework for the cultivation, distribution, and consumption of cannabis products. With these laws in place, users can confidently explore strains like Chocolope Kush Regular without the fear of legal repercussions. It’s important to note that adherence to the age restrictions and consumption guidelines outlined in the California Cannabis Laws is crucial to ensure a responsible and legal experience.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, creative inspiration, or simply a delightful taste experience, Chocolope Kush Regular offers a unique blend of effects. Its balanced qualities make it suitable for both medicinal and recreational users, and the California Cannabis Laws ensure that access to this strain is regulated and safe.

When obtaining Chocolope Kush Regular or any other cannabis product, it’s advisable to source it from licensed dispensaries that adhere to the quality and safety standards set by the California Cannabis Laws. By doing so, users can enjoy the full potential of Chocolope Kush Regular while prioritizing their well-being and complying with the law.

Embrace the diverse world of cannabis strains like Chocolope Kush Regular, made possible by the progressive California Cannabis Laws. With responsible consumption and compliance, users can embark on a journey of relaxation, creativity, and enjoyment within the legal framework established by the state.

Strains featured in this article:

Dani Walton

Dani Walton is a highly accomplished cannabis expert and entrepreneur hailing from the Bay Area. With an impressive track record spanning over 20 years, Dani has amassed a wealth of experience in the cannabis industry. Her journey has taken her across the globe, as she traveled with the executive team of Harborside for more than 11 years, passionately advocating for the positive impacts of the cannabis plant.

During her tenure at Harborside, Dani excelled in managing wholesale and distribution for Harborside's farm, while also playing a pivotal role in the development of their in-house brand, Key. Following her departure from Harborside, Dani embarked on a new venture, co-founding NXTLVL, a women-owned concentrate delivery service that quickly gained recognition and Agris Farms. A beautiful 5 acre light dep farm located in Woodland, near Sacramento.

Her extensive knowledge encompasses the latest consumer trends, cannabis sales, extraction techniques, cultivation methods, new brands and products, as well as the evolving science of cannabis medicine. Recognized as a respected authority in the industry, Dani has served as a judge for esteemed cannabis competitions such as Chalice, High Times, Dab- A- Doo, The Organic Cup and The Emerald Cup. Her expertise and insights have been sought after by renowned publications and media outlets, including Forbes, The Guardian, The Independent, and many others.

With her remarkable background and unwavering commitment to advancing the cannabis industry, Dani Walton stands as a true pioneer and an influential figure in the field.

Read More Read Less

Related Articles

Explore our shop

Blimburn OG Seeds