2 new California cannabis laws took effect in 2026. What to know ahead of 4/20
Several new laws took effect across California at the start of the year, including updated rules around cannabis products.
With Monday, April 20 — also known as cannabis holiday 4/20 — approaching, residents might be wondering what’s allowed in the Golden State and what’s changed.
While California residents 21 and older can legally use marijuana for recreational purposes, weed remains illegal at the federal level.
Plus, the state continues to regulate how cannabis can be used, possessed and sold.
Here’s what to know about the latest cannabis laws in California:
New rules for cannabis products for animals
New regulations cannabis products made for animals made for animals took effect Jan. 1, according to the California Department of Cannabis Control.
Previously, there were no clear statewide standards in terms of pot for pets, the state department said.
Thanks to Assembly Bill 1885, signed into law in 2022, California now has set guidelines for what can be produced and sold.
Veterinary cannabis products must follow many of the “same requirements as adult-use cannabis products” — but with tighter restrictions.
Only “edible cannabis products, orally consumed concentrates and topical cannabis products” are allowed for use by animals, the state Cannabis Control Department said.
Each cannabis product intended for pets cannot contain more than 10 milligram of THC per serving, according to AB 1885.
New law for hemp extracts used in food, beverages and supplements
Assembly Bill 8, which took effect Jan. 1, sets tighter rules for hemp-derived ingredients used in foods, beverages and supplements across California.
Under the new law, hemp extracts used in these products can no longer contain THC or synthetic cannabinoids.
Manufacturers must also provide a certificate of analysis confirming the product is 99% made up of non-intoxicating compounds, such as CBD or CBN.
The law does not change existing licensing rules. However, businesses still need authorization from the California Department of Public Health to produce hemp products.
“AB 8 makes it clear that all intoxicating products must be held to the same important standards Californians expect,” Nicole Elliott, California Department of Cannabis Control director, said in an Oct. 2 news release.
The updated rules ensure “consumer safety,” Elliott said.
Where can I find more cannabis laws in California?
The California Department of Cannabis Control offers online resources to help both consumers and businesses understand cannabis laws in California.
Consumers can find information on legal use, safety tips and product recalls, along with tools to locate licensed dispensaries.
