Pandemic economics pushing So Cal cities to consider cannabis

From Hawthorne to Laguna Woods to Montclair, cities throughout Southern California are considering the idea of licensing cannabis businesses as a way to offset revenue losses triggered by the coronavirus pandemic.

Other cities, such as Costa Mesa, already allow some marijuana operations but are considering permits for more segments of the industry as a way to grow their tax base, bring more jobs to town and expand cannabis access for residents.

“We are seeing a significant uptick in the number of cash-strapped jurisdictions in Southern California begin to investigate regulating cannabis,” said Jackie McGowan, founder of Green Street Consulting, which tracks the industry statewide.

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