The California Assembly has given approval to legislation that would allow licensed marijuana retailers to serve customers through drive-thru windows, advancing the proposal to the Senate.

Assembly Bill 2697, introduced by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D), was passed by the full Assembly in a 55 to 9 vote. The measure would allow local governments to authorize drive-thru marijuana sales at licensed cannabis retailers and storefront microbusinesses, provided certain security requirements are met.

Under the bill, drive-thru sales would not automatically become legal statewide. Instead, cities and counties would be allowed to decide whether to allow the option for businesses within their jurisdictions.

The proposal would allow sales or deliveries through a drive-through, pass-out window or slide-out tray, so long as the transaction is made through a fixed-pane security window with a security drawer. The window would need to be part of a building located on the licensed premises.

The legislation would not apply to businesses that operate exclusively through delivery or to licensees that do not maintain a storefront open to the public.

Supporters argue the bill would make legal marijuana more accessible, particularly for medical patients, seniors and those with mobility issues, while giving licensed retailers another tool to compete with the illicit market.

With Assembly passage secured, the measure now heads to the Senate for consideration.