California Officials Look to “Standardize” Cannabis Testing
Cannabis regulators in California are considering standardizing testing for marijuana products. There are currently rules for mandatory testing for contaminants and cannabinoid content. However, licensed testing facilities do not have a uniform methodology for testing, which often results in varying results from different labs. As consumers look for products with higher THC content, many manufacturers and retailers will “laboratory shop” to try to find facilities whose testing methods tend to show higher levels of THC. The California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) wants to end this practice. Last Friday, the DCC announced that they are taking the first steps in creating regulations that would require all licensed laboratories to adopt the same testing methodology.
Proposed Legislation in PA Could Ease Marijuana Banking Issues
Recently proposed legislation in Pennsylvania could help cannabis businesses in the state get access to much-needed banking services. The bill would shield credit unions, banks, and insurance companies that work with cannabis businesses from state prosecution. House Bill 331 passed the House of Representatives and was amended by the state Senate. The bill is now awaiting the signature of Governor Tom Wolf. While many feel this legislation would benefit cannabis businesses in Pennsylvania, others have pointed out that the bill would only protect financial institutions from prosecution at a state level, not a federal one.
Recreational Cannabis Could Be on the November Ballot in Arkansas
Arkansas cannabis advocacy group Responsible Growth Arkansas is hoping to have their referendum for adult-use cannabis legalization added to the ballot in November. The group said it submitted 192,828 signatures to the secretary of state’s office last week. This is more than twice the required number of signatures. The signatures need to be verified, which is a process that takes approximately two weeks. The referendum would have adult-use sales begin in March 2023 by using existing medical cannabis providers. It also includes a 10 percent retail tax on adult-use cannabis products.
