Legislation would fine businesses that provide building space, advertising platforms and other aid to illegal cannabis operations

Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park)  introduced a bill  that would impose civil fines of upto $30,000 per day on businesses that provide building space, advertising platforms and other aid to illegal cannabis operations.



The legislation unanimously passed the state Assembly and is pending vote in the Senate. The final vote is expected sometime this month.

According to the Los Angeles Times, as much as 80% of the cannabis sold in California comes from the illicit market, despite voters approving legal and licensed sales that began in 2018.

“Despite some success during the first two years of legalized cannabis sales, the illicit market has flourished. In addition to dwindling tax revenues, the underground market presents public safety and health threats to California.”

The proposal is supported by The United Cannabis Business Association and opposed by NORML.

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-07-20/california-weighs-steep-new-fines-illegal-pot-industry