What is more American than a county fair in the middle of summer? It’s the place to go for gut-busting fried food, stomach-churning carnival rides … and next year in California, cannabis.
That’s right. The Golden State, which legalized recreational marijuana last year, will allow cannabis on fair property. According to a report this week in the Sacramento Bee:
Gov. Jerry Brown last week signed a bill that details how to carry out the November 2016 ballot measure that legalizes recreational marijuana as of January 2018. Tucked deep in the text is an option for county fairs to allow sampling and sales for people 21 and older in designated spots.
The Stanislaus County Fair has had “minor discussions” among the board and Chief Executive Officer Matt Cranford about the issue, spokeswoman Adrenna Alkhas said by email.
“We must always look at our demographics and keep in mind that this is a family-friendly fair,” she said. “Once this takes effect next year, we will give it thorough thought and see how supportive the public would be.”
California is not the only state to consider the cannabis question. Last summer, the Oregon State Fair added a new agricultural prize for best marijuana plants. There were nine cannabis entrants last year, displayed in a greenhouse with its own entrance and exit. Only people 21 and older were allowed to see the exhibit.
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“This is really a reflection of where Oregon is now as a state,” said Oregon State Fair spokesman Dan Cox.
Since retail sales of cannabis will not begin in California until next year, this summer’s fairs will not offer cannabis. You’ll have to wait for next year to enjoy a little marijuana before eating a deep-fried Oreo or the elephant ears or the corn dog.
