A resident from Portland has submitted a second ballot measure in Oregon to legalize social consumption areas for marijuana. This new proposal comes just over a month after a similar initiative aimed at establishing cannabis cafes was introduced.
The latest petition, called the Oregon Cannabis Social Lounge Act, is more detailed than the previous measure. Its main goal is to legalize state-licensed cannabis lounges, providing “a safe, legal environment for adults to consume cannabis” according to the proposal.
The lounges would operate under strict guidelines to ensure public health and safety. They would allow adult cannabis consumers to enjoy cannabis in social settings while also permitting the sale and consumption of unmedicated food and beverages. The proposal emphasizes that these lounges would be managed in a way that complies with state laws.
Compared to the earlier measure, this new proposal includes specific information regarding licensing, operational restrictions, and public education requirements. Notably, it states that cannabis social lounge licenses will only be available to small cannabis businesses known as microbusinesses.
Justyce Seith, the chief petitioner for both proposals, is the founder of the Oregon Cannabis Cafe Coalition (OCCC). This Portland-based organization advocates for the legalization of lounges and cafes where the consumption of infused edibles is allowed.
Seith has not yet responded to inquiries about whether this newer initiative is meant to replace the earlier one or if the activists plan to pursue both versions. The OCCC has pointed out on social media that the new proposal uses different terms for social consumption and places a focus on microbusinesses. They believe this change makes it easier for individuals who may oppose the term “Cannabis Cafes” and allows smaller businesses a better chance to create and maintain these lounges.
Under the proposed regulations, cannabis social lounges would allow adults aged 21 and older to consume cannabis and sell “unmedicated food and beverages.” However, lounges would not be permitted to sell or distribute cannabis on their premises. The proposal states that consumption must be limited to smoking, vaping, and non-edible products.
Furthermore, the sale of alcohol and tobacco—including nicotine vape products—would be strictly prohibited. The lounges would also have to close by 2 a.m.
The proposal leaves some uncertainty regarding local governments’ authority to prohibit these establishments. While it mentions that local governments could regulate the number of cannabis social lounges and impose additional restrictions, it does not clarify if they can outright ban them. Local authorities would also have the power to inspect the lounges to ensure compliance with state and local laws.
Oversight of these new businesses would fall to the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC). The proposal outlines a licensing application process for lounges and includes basic penalties. For instance, violations of the act could lead to fines or even license suspension or revocation. Operating a lounge without a license could result in civil and criminal penalties.
Additionally, the proposal requires lounges to display signs or visual aids that inform patrons about the risks associated with cannabis consumption and the rules of the lounge. The OLCC would collaborate with public health authorities to provide educational materials and outreach.
