California Senate Committee Approves Drive-Thru Sales for Cannabis Dispensaries

California is moving closer to allowing drive-thru cannabis sales after a Senate committee advanced Assembly Bill 2697, which had already received approval from the state Assembly. The Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee passed the measure in a 7-3 vote, signaling growing support for expanding retail options for licensed dispensaries and microbusinesses. If enacted, the new law would permit cannabis retailers to serve customers in motor vehicles through secure drive-thru windows on their premises, pending approval from local jurisdictions

The bill’s sponsor, Assemblymember Gail Pellerin, emphasized the importance of improving access to legal cannabis products and strengthening the regulated market. 'This bill will expand access to legal cannabis products while strengthening [the] legal market’s ability to compete with the illicit market,' Pellerin told the committee. Advocates argue that drive-thru options would especially benefit seniors, veterans, and individuals with mobility challenges who rely on cannabis for medical reasons

Retailers and industry groups have voiced strong support for the measure, highlighting both accessibility and operational advantages. Annie Aubrey of Chuck’s Wellness Center testified, 'A significant portion of our customers rely on cannabis as medicine, including seniors, veterans and individuals living with chronic conditions that affect mobility.' Amy O’Gorman Jenkins of the California Cannabis Operators Association noted, 'It does not expand who can access cannabis. It just allows retailers, with local approval, to serve existing patients and customers in a more efficient manner.'

Safety concerns have also featured prominently in the debate. Supporters argue that the bill would reduce risks for employees by mandating that drive-thru sales occur through a fixed-pane security window with a secure transfer mechanism, keeping staff inside and lowering the chance of theft. However, opponents such as the California Narcotic Officers’ Association warn that the drive-thru model could complicate age verification and impairment checks, with representative Ryan Sherman stating, 'This bill prioritizes speed of sale over public safety, while undermining current safeguards designed to prevent illegal sales and protect public safety.'

Currently, California dispensaries are permitted to offer curbside pickup—a policy introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic—but drive-thru sales remain prohibited. The proposed legislation would formalize and secure the process, requiring that all transactions occur through a fixed, secure window. This approach aims to enhance the customer experience while maintaining robust security protocols

OG Lab notes that the advancement of AB 2697 reflects California’s ongoing efforts to innovate in cannabis retailing, balancing accessibility with safety and regulatory oversight. If the bill becomes law, it could set a precedent for other states seeking to expand legal cannabis sales through consumer-friendly models, while also continuing to address concerns about diversion and compliance