California Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed Assembly Bill 1332, legislation that would have allowed certain licensed cannabis stores to ship products directly to customers within the state.
The proposal, sponsored by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D), was designed to expand consumer access by allowing home shipments in addition to traditional retail sales and deliveries. Supporters argued the measure would have particularly benefitted rural residents and individuals with limited mobility, while also helping licensed businesses compete with the illicit market.
In his veto message, Newsom warned the measure could place the state at odds with federal law. “While I support efforts to expand safe access to California’s regulated cannabis market, this bill would authorize the shipment of cannabis through common carriers in a manner that directly conflicts with federal law,” he wrote. The governor added that the proposal “could subject licensees and consumers to significant legal risks” and that California should instead strengthen its existing delivery and retail framework.
The veto means the state’s current rules remain in place, allowing licensed retailers to deliver marijuana to customers but stopping short of permitting shipment through third-party carriers. Advocates of AB 1332 say they will continue pressing for reforms to increase access and to bolster the legal industry, which continues to face heavy competition from unregulated sellers.
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