Salas holds information meeting as state discusses path forward with cannabis

“Today’s hearing was a great step toward identifying solutions to responsibly regulate the cannabis industry to help ensure Californians are safe and that everything is being done to keep these products out of the hands of children,” said Salas. “The passage of Proposition 64 largely elevates the need for strong oversight and consistent communication between the legislature, state regulators, and the cannabis industry. As the Chair of the Business and Professions Committee I look forward to being fully engaged in the oversight and regulatory framework of this industry as it develops.”

In attendance were representatives from the state agencies responsible for regulating cannabis, as well as representatives from law enforcement, cities, counties, and all segments of the cannabis industry.

Many issues, challenges, and solutions regarding the future of regulating the cannabis industry were discussed. Issues about the licensure of cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution of cannabis were also covered with a focus on state, local, and industry perspectives.

“One of the biggest challenges we anticipate is detecting, apprehending, and prosecuting marijuana impaired drivers,” said Captain Richard Desmond, Legislative Representative for California Highway Patrol. “Fortunately, there is research funding available that CHP intends to utilize to help develop better field sobriety tests to detect those drivers.”

“We think it is essential to establish a means of verifying local compliance prior to the issuance of a state license,” said Tim Cromartie, Legislative Representative, League of California Cities. “The Medical Act was clear on this: local approval was absolutely required prior to applying for a state license.

Proposition 64, on the other hand, expressly states that applicants are not required to submit evidence of local approval. As written, Prop. 64 places state regulators in the position of having to chase down individual ordinances.”

This hearing was one of a series of hearings that will be conducted as regulations are developed. The state agencies responsible for developing the regulatory framework are required notify the legislature as the regulations are developed. Regulations are required to be implemented by January 1, 2018.

Salas also introduced legislation today intended to bolster regulations and protect California consumers.