Business Archives - Page 20 of 21 - International Cannabis Business Conference

New Report Details How Cannabis Is a $57 Billion Global Market

Written by Amber Iris Langston on February 28, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC Portland, CBC San Francisco, CBC Vancouver, ICBC Berlin.

Arcview Market Research and BDS Analytics released a new 65-page report this week detailing monetary estimates of cannabis’ future entitled, “The Road Map to a $57 Billion Worldwide Market”. The big takeaway was – you guessed it – the legal global cannabis market is expected to expand to a whopping $57 billion by 2027. According to the report, that figure represents a $38.3 billion estimate for adult-use cannabis with a medical market accounting for $19.1 billion.

Arcview’s press release gives a rosy outlook for the future, and numbers are further broken down there:

“While the adult-use market is expected to dominate in North America, the medical market will have advantages overseas due to government-subsidized health systems covering costs for patients. The report also notes that Europe, which has 739 million people and more than $1.5 trillion in healthcare spending, has the potential to be the largest medical cannabis market in the world.

“‘Outside the United States and Canada, it will be almost wholly a medical-only business until the United Nations revamps the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, which will likely only come after the United States’ Federal Government ends prohibition, which we don’t expect until 2021,’ said Troy Dayton, CEO of The Arcview Group.

“‘California gets the media attention and Canada gets the investment dollars as they allow adult use, but Germany’s move to make cannabis flower available for medical use in pharmacies was really the big news of 2017 from a worldwide perspective’ said Tom Adams, Editor-in-Chief at Arcview Market Research and Principal Analyst at BDS Analytics. ‘The tables have turned in favor of legalization across the world and we predict that the trend will spread as research continues to support cannabis’ effectiveness as a medication.'”

Exciting news for the planet! A lot can happen in nine years. It just was at about that long ago when I was hanging out with Troy at a conference. He put his arm around my shoulders and whispered, “In ten years from now people are going to look back and think, ‘Why wasn’t I getting involved in marijuana policy reform way back then?!'”

Why not indeed?

What are you waiting for? Get into the cannabis space now! Come be part of the global cannabis movement at the International Cannabis Business Conference happening April 11-13 in Berlin, Germany and June 24-25 in Vancouver, BC, Canada, and September 27-28 in Portland, Oregon. Tickets are on sale now!

Cannabis Just Went Public on the Nasdaq

Written by Amber Iris Langston on February 27, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC Portland, CBC Vancouver, ICBC Berlin.

Today – Tuesday, February 27th, 2018 – marks a moment in history that is the telling of a new era. For the first time ever, US traders on Wall Street are getting a piece of the pot. The Nasdaq Stock Market is now listing its first shares for a cannabis company on the open trade floor. Cronos Group Inc., a Canadian company which is already flowering (and trading) in the Great White North, is now open for your investment.

Cronos is clearly establishing itself as a leader in the industry, with production operations based in Toronto, Ontario. Cronos is also a distributor to Germany-based G. Pohl-Boskamp GmbH, tapping in early on the nascent German medical cannabis market, and has partnered to build a legal grow in Israel. They have also received a license in Australia through a developed local alliance.

Bloomberg reports:

“There may be opportunities to team up with big companies in those spaces. Constellation Brands Inc., which sells Corona in the U.S., last year made a direct investment in Canopy Growth, one of Cronos’s competitors. A bigger partner can help capitalize on the industry’s enormous growth potential over the next few years.

“‘We’re driving to go from zero to Pepsi in two years,’ Gorenstein said. ‘That’s quite a bit to do without any help, so having partnerships — whether it’s an investor, distribution, joint development with alcohol and pharmaceutical companies — is very, very helpful.’

“Gorenstein’s legal background has kept the company rooted in compliance, he said. Federal illegality in the U.S. is what drove Cronos’s founders to locate and expand the company in Canada, where the plant has been federally legal for medical use since 2001. Still, Gorenstein said he hopes Cronos’s listing will bolster companies on both sides of the border.”

Let’s hope this is a kick in the pants for lagging politicians in Washington, DC, to be more proactive on the legalization front. Legal cannabis is expected to be a $31.4 billion market by 2021 at the international level. And while the is US currently responsible for 90 percent of global cannabis sales, that number is expected to drop to 57 percent in the same time frame.

While I would like to see policy change because it is humanely unjust to imprison people for cannabis, and the social repercussions of the failed drug war wreak devastation on impoverished communities and people of color, the truth is that money talks. And finally, we can have successful examples of what a regulated cannabis industry can look like.

Keep up on the most current trends in cannabis at the world’s best-known global B2B cannabis event – the International Cannabis Business Conference! Tickets are on sale now for Berlin, Germany on April 11-13; Vancouver, BC, Canada on June 24-25; and Portland, Oregon on September 27-28! Public cannabis companies, like Cronos and Canopy Growth, will certainly be on the agenda!

Alberta Puts British Columbia on Notice in the Canadian Cannabis Marketplace

Written by Amber Iris Langston on February 22, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC Vancouver, Politics.

With support from their national parliament and the blessings of Prime Minister Trudeau, Canada is quickly emerging to be a global leader in the cannabis trade.

That’s not to say Canada doesn’t have its issues. The political nature of the country allows its provinces a lot of leeway in crafting legislation, and for cannabis, that means each independent state is coming up with its own rules and systems of governing oversight. In Canada, much like in the United States, the tension is strong regarding who will have control over this new and profitable market. Rumblings of restricted markets and favorability for major corporate production has long-time activists concerned, particularly in British Columbia, where cannabis has long-enjoyed cultural acceptance and lax enforcement of prohibition. Just this past week, cannabis giant Canopy Growth made moves that will ostensibly make it the largest cannabis cultivation facility in the world.

Now, BC’s neighbor to the east is working to expand opportunities for smaller operators and support a more competitive playing field. Alberta recently announced its process for licensing, and it includes a lot of potential businesses:

“The Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission will oversee the distribution and enforcement of the province’s cannabis retail system. It will also be responsible for online sales, but the details of how the online services will operate won’t be released until later this year.

“The AGLC estimates that in the first year it will issue 250 licenses, which will have to be renewed annually at a cost of $700 per year.

“The agency will start accepting applications March 6. According to David Berry, vice-president of regulatory services, each application must be submitted with a criminal background check consent, detailed financial information and associated fees.”

More telling, Alberta’s government has stated no single entity may own more than 15% of the licenses.

While I definitely am open to entrepreneurs making their fortunes on the open market, the truth is that economies thrive when there is competition. In my opinion, Alberta is doing the right thing by allowing the space for new and smaller businesses to thrive. Certainly, it is exciting to watch the process unfold. I’ll be curious to see who is around and why in five years from now.

Canada may still be on pace to legalize cannabis possession this July, but it looks like cannabis commerce will be delayed, so the licensing timeline quoted in the article may get pushed back as well. Stay ahead of the game and be as prepared as possible by attending the International Cannabis Business Conference in Vancouver, BC on June 24 & 25. Get your tickets now for Vancouver and Berlin, April, 11-13!

Featured photo credit: abdallahh/Flickr (CC BY 2.0) | Remix by Jason Reed

Will Germany Ever Supply Its Own Cannabis or Remain an Importer?

Written by Amber Iris Langston on February 15, 2018. Posted in Business, ICBC Berlin, Medical.

In the whole world of supply-and-demand, demand has never been the problem – at least when it comes to cannabis. When you add the word “legal” in front of the word “cannabis” then places can definitely have a supply problem.

Germany has a legal cannabis supply problem.

In March 2017, Germany opened applications for patients in its country for medical cannabis prescriptions. Recently, a survey was conducted by some of the German health insurance providers Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), Barmer and AOK-Bundesverband about the new cannabis policy program.

From German publication RP-Online:

“More than 13,000 applications were received by the coffers over the past ten months, according to the survey. This is significantly more than expected: before cannabis was approved as a drug, only about 1,000 people in Germany had a dispensation for consumption. The bill anticipated just under 700 patients a year who need cannabis by prescription.

“A total of 7,600 applications were received by the AOK funds, according to a survey. 64 percent of them were approved. The Barmer reached by the end of 2017 about 3200 applications, of which almost 62 percent were recognized. By the end of November, TK had received around 2,200 applications for reimbursement. There, the approval rate was 64 percent.”

While some of those rejections can be attributed to incomplete applications, some would suggest it is a result of continuous pushback of prohibitionists who now find themselves on the losing side of history. That resistance to action may end up hurting German businesses hoping to compete in the future legal market.

“‘Too many applications are not approved, and again and again, patients settle in court against the coffers,’ regrets Georg Wurth, CEO of the German hemp association. Even the search expert of the Greens in the Bundestag, Kirsten Kappert-Gonther, criticized the behavior of the health insurance in the assumption of costs. ‘I think it’s wrong that the health insurance check the prescription of a doctor again,’ said the politician, who is a specialist in psychiatry and psychology.”

“…For the period from 2019 to 2022, a cannabis production of 6.6 tonnes is planned. But there could be delays: The tender is criticized because the applicants already have experience in legal cultivation. “This disadvantages German companies, because in this country legal cultivation was never possible,” says Oskar Sarak from the start-up Lexamed. The company has received a cancellation from the agency and complains against it.”

Whether Germany can become self-sufficient in supplying its own medical cannabis needs, or will need to continue importing marijuana from other countries, remains to be seen. What is clear is that there is a great demand for medical cannabis today, and that more German patients are likely to start utilizing the medicine as marijuana moves more mainstream in their nation. Germany will have to decide whether they want to remain an importer of cannabis or whether the nation will license enough producers within its borders to meet a growing demand for a safe and effective medicine.

See what is happening in the German cannabis market in person and on the ground, this April 11-13, in Berlin, Germany, at the one and only International Cannabis Business Conference. Tickets are on sale now!

Featured photo credit, with special permission: Michael Knodt (all rights reserved)

Israeli Cannabis Firms Look to Produce in Germany After Federal Freeze

Written by Amber Iris Langston on February 14, 2018. Posted in Business, ICBC Berlin, Medical.

When it comes to medical cannabis research, no one has Israel beat. Over the decades, the country has proven to be a leader in formally documenting the usefulness of the plant, and had a generally more open attitude to use by its country’s military and citizens.

Recently, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a move to freeze political reforms aimed at allowing cannabis exportations from Israel. Reportedly, Netanyahu’s decision to ban medical marijuana exports, a potential billion-dollar-plus industry for Israel, was made to appease Donald Trump.

Unsurprisingly, the move has come with a lot of frustration, anger, and pushback, particularly from Israel’s eight licensed producers of cannabis, as well as other companies looking to get into the sector. Two of those later companies, Medivie and Together, say that in the face of large set-up costs for production, they are looking to alternate markets to set up operations.

From Haaretz.com:

“Israeli cannabis has already won accolades for its high quality, said Nissim Bracha, the incoming CEO of Together, one of two marijuana companies traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. ‘Globally there’s huge demand for Israeli medical cannabis,’ he said. ‘The subject still isn’t taken seriously as it should be because of the negative connotations it still carries.’

“Both companies found their way to the TASE by buying shell companies and then enjoying as sudden surge in their stock prices.

“…Netanyahu’s decision freezing export licenses caused Together shares to plunge 28% and Medivie’s 10%. In response, Together said it was weighing a plan to grow marijuana in Germany and Medivie said much the same on Sunday, which resulted in a small bounce higher for the shares. On Monday, Medivie ended down 2.1% at 18.04 shekels and Together fell 0.3% to 1.83.”

As two companies with strong branding ability and known dabblers in the cannabis market, it is unlikely that these companies will be willing to lose their competitive advantages. The market demand for cannabis is enormous and Germany’s newly regulated system is already proving its value for cannabis business interests in Europe. It is a shame that both Israel and the United States are behind the curve on medical cannabis exportation at this time. While Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu stifle the industry, other countries like Canada and Germany are poised to gain from the new jobs, revenue, and scientific advancements from the burgeoning medical marijuana market.

Stay informed of the latest cannabis market changes and trends in Germany and all of Europe. Buy your tickets today for the International Cannabis Business Conference in Berlin, Germany, on April 11-13, 2018!

Canadian Cannabis Giant Aurora Hits Heavy in Germany

Written by Amber Iris Langston on February 13, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC Vancouver, ICBC Berlin, Medical.

If you are one of those entrepreneurs closely watching the public sector of cannabis finance, you have no doubt heard of Aurora. Aurora Cannabis Inc. is second only to Canopy Growth Corp as one of Canada’s leading producers and distributors of cannabis. But Canopy has some stiff competition, as it would appear that last year, Aurora nearly doubled both the amount of cannabis sold and patients whom they are serving. That drastic uptick in services can be accounted for by the introduction of one single new legal medical marijuana market that Aurora now serves in Europe: Germany.

According to Mark Rendell at the Financial Post:

“Along with quantity, revenue growth came from an increased average price per gram sold, which jumped to $8.36 from $5.96 in the same quarter last year. That increase was thanks in large part to exports to Germany, where medical cannabis prices are significantly higher, through its subsidiary Pedanios GmbH.

“‘The big mover here is Germany, and that’s a huge validation of the acquisition of Pedanios, which cost about $23 million,’ said Cam Battley, Aurora’s chief corporate officer.

“…All told, Aurora more than doubled its German sales between the first and second quarter, selling $2.5 million worth of dried cannabis in German pharmacies in the second quarter. That accounted for fully 20 per cent of the company’s total revenue.”

Pedanios is a pharmaceutical wholesale distribution company which Aurora purchased last year that supplies products directly to German pharmacies. The acquisition, it would seem, is paying off dramatically and quickly. And as has been widely predicted, the introduction of a new patient market in Germany has deeply impacted those working to create medical cannabis access in Europe. One can expect to see more European markets opening and looking to Germany for leadership in how to handle their new policies.

Stay informed of the latest happenings in Canada, Germany and elsewhere! Join the global leader in cannabis B2B events at International Cannabis Business Conference in Berlin, Germany on April 11-13, and Vancouver, BC, Canada on June 24-25, 2018. Get your tickets now!

Canada’s Cannabis Rollout Possibly Delayed, Perhaps the Cartels Can Help

Written by Amber Iris Langston on February 9, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC Vancouver, ICBC Berlin, Politics.

Canadian legislators hemmed and hawed this week when their country’s Health Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor suggested that retail sales for cannabis should take another eight to 12 weeks following royal assent for their cannabis legalization bill, Bill C-45. (Royal assent is a formality of Canadian law, and of other countries which recognize a monarchy, whereby the monarch formally approves an act of parliament.) The statement was made on Tuesday to a group of senators, and the vague nature of the commentary is leading many to believe that implementation of retail cannabis sales may be delayed up to three months from previously thought.

Currently, Bill C-45 lists July 2018 as the deadline for the cannabis program’s rollout. While many conservatives in the Canadian government would like to see the deadline pushed back (or deferred indefinitely), Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has the backing of his party, and more importantly the backing of the people, to make sure things move forward. Still, the Health Minister demurred when pressed about deadlines that people might expect for the new program, and senators opposing the change raised questions about who is getting into the Canadian cannabis market.

CTV News reported Health Minister Petitpas Taylor saying, “We still feel very confident that we can meet our goal of July 2018. No one ever said July 1 or I never said July 1. But our goal of meeting July 2018 for me is still very much a realistic goal.” Whether this means royal assent will be given by July or retail cannabis sales will begin in July was left in ambiguity.

If the country intends to sell cannabis by July, “…that would mean the Senate would have to pass the bill by no later than the end of May — which seems unlikely given the depth and breadth of concern among senators about C-45 that was apparent during a rare two-hour grilling of Petitpas Taylor and two other cabinet ministers in the Senate chamber Tuesday.”

Most of the senators pushing back on the legislation echoed the typical fear-mongering prohibition statements, but not all.

“Sen. Serge Joyal, an independent Liberal, questioned the government’s contention that legalization will push organized crime out of the marijuana marketing business. He pointed to a report that found almost half of 86 companies that have received Health Canada permits to grow marijuana are financed through offshore tax havens frequently used by organized crime to launder money.”

I can ignore the politicians who are worried the new laws will turn children into zombies (okay, no one actually said zombies) but I am intrigued to hear so many licensees have potentially questionable financial holdings. If it is true that the new legal cannabis market is going to be run by organized criminal networks, then surely we can get cannabis on the shelves in Canada by July 2018. Right?

The best way to learn what is happening in Canada’s cannabis scene is to check it out for yourself! Join the International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC) in Vancouver, BC, where we’ll have the latest updates! Tickets are on sale NOW for Vancouver on June 24-25, and for ICBC Berlin on April 11-13, 2018!

Photo credit: abdallahh/Flickr (CC BY 2.0) | Remix by Jason Reed

Thanks, San Francisco, for a Great ICBC! See You Soon, Berlin!

Written by Amber Iris Langston on February 6, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, ICBC Berlin, Politics.

San Francisco deserves a huge shout-out for this bringing out the best of the best in cannabis last weekend! ICBC was THE place to be in the Bay last weekend, and once again the International Cannabis Business Conference delivered the goods.

The room was buzzing with California Cannabis Czar Lori Ajax on hand to answer pressing questions; cannabis experts Lauren Fraser, Felipe Recalled, Tim Morland, and Michael Beaudry shared their experiences navigating the logistics of distribution; Derek Riedle, Clay Busch, Monica Lo and Abdullah Saeed entertained and informed about working in the media; Paul King and Nic Easley gave rock-solid advice on investing; Debby Goldsberry, Lindsay Robinson, David Hua and James Anthony dished out advice on current compliance; and many other top leaders covered the topics of technologies, strategic partnerships and challenges in clean cannabis. The Expo room also had an impressive showing of top-notch movers and shakers, and just keeping a slight ear out, one could hear the networking there has created new and powerful partnerships.

And oh those ICBC VIP and after-parties! DJ Domino of Hieroglyphics and DJ Muggs of Cypress Hill did not disappoint! The night at Pier 23 will be a lifetime memory for all who came.

Congratulations to the community that made all of this happen! If you missed it, or if you want to keep your brand at the front of the industry, make your plans now for ICBC Berlin! ICBC returns for a second year to Europe’s biggest cannabis market, which is just getting off the ground. NOW is the time to be investing in Germany and other European states, and ICBC is the B2B conference that allows these conversations to happen.

Thanks to all who came out in California! Get your tickets now for ICBC Berlin on April 11-12, 2018. See you in Germany!

High Taxes Rock the Boat for California Dispensaries

Written by Amber Iris Langston on January 29, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco.

Just a few weeks past the rollout of California’s Prop 64, cannabis sales for legal adult use have begun in spurts in counties and municipalities which allow for permitting of such activities. Many cities and counties are still wary of the new law, implementing bans against cannabis operations or strongly restricting availability for such licenses. The places which do allow for sales and manufacturing are doing so less for the principle of freedom and more for the principle of money, that is to say, revenue from new taxes. Current estimates for a year’s worth of tax revenue in the giant cannabis market that exists in California are around $1 billion per year. That’s fantastic for needed state infrastructure but what about needed state entrepreneurship or keeping consumers out of the black market?

Prop 64 allows the State to garner a 15% excise tax on sales. But the State can also collect tax separately from cultivation, which obviously passes on to the consumer. Then there are state and local sales taxes, on top of local use taxes, and while these local taxes fall into variable rates, the end truth is that everyone has their hand out. When you add up the various ways in which government is taking their piece of the pie, taxes on recreational cannabis could go up an estimated 45%.

From the Santa Rosa Press Democrat:

“It’s sticker shock for marijuana customers since Jan. 1, when clerks began adding a whole slate of new taxes to both medical and nonmedical pot purchases. Industry experts have estimated the new tariffs — cultivation, excise and sales taxes — add up to a 40 percent increase in the cost of pot this year versus 2017.

“…Marijuana prices are expected to plummet in California once large-scale cultivation and manufacturing production gets underway and the above-board supply expands. But it could take a year or more for supply to drive prices down.

“At SPARC’s dispensary Tuesday on North Dutton Avenue in Santa Rosa, contractor Jesse Knapp paid $120 for several varieties of cannabis flowers and edibles like chocolates, which he guessed would have cost him about $30 less in 2017.”

Time has yet to tell how these new cost structures will affect market supply and demand, but it’s clear that California is flirting with the very edge of reality when it comes to smart business practice. The opportunities for the Golden State to create new jobs and generate revenue are there, but prices matter, as the regulated system will find competing with the illegal market very difficult. Let’s hope things even out soon for both producers and consumers so that we can actually call this change in policy an end to cannabis prohibition.

The International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco on February 1-2, is a great opportunity for the California cannabis community to share information, network, and network. It’s clear that taxes and regulations are going to impact prices to consumers, which impacts the bottom line for businesses and the overall success of the legalization market.

With California Cannabis Czar Lori Ajax in attendance, the ICBC will provide a great opportunity to be heard and to have your questions answered by the top regulator in the state. With top entrepreneurs and advocates in attendance, it is also a great opportunity to unite and organize around needed reforms that will help ensure a bright future for the California cannabis community.

The San Francisco ICBC is just a few days away. Get your tickets today!

Attend the ICBC in San Francisco NEXT WEEK!

Written by ICBC Staff on January 26, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Entertainment, Politics, Social.

Next week, on February 1st, the Bay Area event of the year kicks off with International Cannabis Business Conference‘s VIP Reception Networking Party! You love cannabis, you love parties, and you love making money while making the world a better place. As always, ICBC delivers.

This year’s San Francisco VIP party brings the original cannabis celebrity, Tommy Chong, and California’s first lady of ganja, California Cannabis Czar Lori Ajax for an intimate meet-n-greet, with music DJ Domino from the Grammy award-winning reggae group Hieroglyphics. This will be YOUR chance to mingle with a host of experts slated to speak and is sponsored by cannabis behemoths Meadow, RISE and Herban Engineers.

Friday, February 2nd overviews all the essentials for any business in the cannabis space, including up-to-date info on changing directions in California’s long-term regulations. Hear from professionals experienced in compliance, technology, investing – and getting investments, distribution logistics, media, and marketing. One of our presenters, longtime activist entrepreneur Debby Goldsberry, literally wrote the book on starting and running a cannabis business.

With Cannabis Czar Ajax taking the stage, you will have the opportunity to have your burning questions answered directly from the top marijuana regulator in the Golden State. With regulated sales just a month old, the ICBC is a great time to check in on where the industry is at, and where it may be headed in the near future.

Next Friday night, celebrate your new business connections at the ICBC AfterParty, exclusively for all conference attendees, with entertainment by Cypress Hill’s DJ Muggs!

Come for the party, stay for the education and networking. Get your tickets today for California’s most important B2B conference of the year!

Sessions Can’t Stop Cannabis Investment, Learn Latest at the ICBC in San Francisco

Written by Anthony Johnson on January 25, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

When Trump Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced that he was going to allow federal prosecutors to enforce federal marijuana law, even in states where cannabis is legal under state law, my initial reaction was that this move would have a chilling effect on investors. Initially, my fear was realized as marijuana stocks suffered a dramatic drop in price.

However, after the industry, and our allies, struck back, cannabis stocks went back up and it became crystal clear that the industry’s future is bright. While I’m not personally advocating the purchase of cannabis stocks, their prices do somewhat reflect the optimism of investors. The International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC) in San Francisco on February 1st and 2nd will be a great opportunity for investors and entrepreneurs to learn the latest and organize for the future.

The ICBC features two presentations on investing, “High Stakes Domestic/International Cannabis Investments and Opportunities” by Nic Easley, founder and CEO of 3C Consulting out of Colorado. Easley, an air force veteran with experience in the cannabis industry in the first state to legalize cannabis, as well as across the country, understands firsthand the opportunities and risks the industry presents.

Also, focusing on investment will be Paul King of Cannafornia. King’s presentation, “Investing in California Cultivation” will tackle the ins and outs of securing the necessary funds and partners to grow cannabis commercially in the world’s sixth largest economy. According to King, Northern California currently provides the best opportunities for investment as he told me that, “These counties have recently finished their ordinances and allowed for greenhouse grows. Greenhouses provide the best value per dollar invested, quickest returns, and highest output.”

When considering whether to invest in a cannabis cultivation operation, King implores investors to do their due diligence and ultimately to trust their gut. “Look at the team, their strategy for cultivation and distribution, and then ask yourself if it feels right. You always know. Then, trust yourself.”

With uncertainty at the federal level and a ton of competition, investing in the cannabis industry isn’t for the timid or those looking to make a quick buck. If you are a strong supporter of cannabis legalization and are in it for the long haul, then investing in cannabis may be for you. There will be plenty of ups and downs, but marijuana businesses will only continue to generate more revenue over time. Within five to ten years, we should see an end to federal prohibition, opening up the possibility of interstate commerce. If things go right, international commerce isn’t out of the question.

With Vermont becoming the 9th state to legalize cannabis, New Jersey poised to become the 10th, and a supermajority of voters agreeing that states should have the ability to legalize cannabis without federal interference, the momentum to end prohibition is simply too great for Jeff Sessions, or any other Reefer Madness prohibitionist, to stop. If you are getting into the cannabis industry for the right reasons, there is no need to delay, but you need to be as informed as possible.

If you are in the industry, or are thinking of joining, the ICBC in San Francisco is a great place to take the next step, or to take your business to the next level. Get your tickets today!

Cannabis Movement Leader Debby Goldsberry to Speak at International Cannabis Business Conference

Written by Amber Iris Langston on January 23, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Cultural.

Anyone interested in starting and running a business needs to become an expert in the many different aspects that constitute successful entrepreneurship. Anyone interested in starting and running a cannabis business needs to know these things – and a WHOLE LOT MORE. If you have been looking what your options are for jumping into the new adult-legal market in California (or elsewhere) you know that the volatility and uncertainty of changing rules can be overwhelming. Employees and business partners must be vetted, local community support should be cultivated, and applications must be submitted with all i’s dotted and all t’s crossed.

And if you want expert advice on Starting and Running a Marijuana Business, I suggest going right to the source: Debby Goldsberry is the cannabis superheroine and social justice warrior who wrote the book, “Idiot’s Guides: Starting & Running a Marijuana Business,” bringing decades of experience and practical guidance to the up and coming cannabis businessperson. You can hear tips of the trade directly from Goldsberry at the upcoming International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco this February 1-2.

Mentored by the iconic Jack Herer, Debby has traveled the globe helping bring freedom to the cannabis community, counseling and inspiring many activists herself. Golsdberry has found herself involved in many successful cannabis ventures since her start in 1988, and currently serves as the Executive Director of Magnolia Wellness in Oakland, California, one of the very first California dispensaries to begin adult-use sales earlier this month. While Debby is a powerhouse of knowledge when it comes to the business, it’s her strong allegiance to community ethics and pursuit of meaningful political change which forms her foundation for success.

“It’s time for the cannabis industry to gather together and find a path forward. The end of prohibition is still far away, and the next steps will be crucial. This includes fighting high taxes, creating equitable access to licenses, and getting access to banking services. ICBC is where we will start the conversation about next steps.” – Debby Goldsberry

In just a few days, you have the chance to meet Debby Goldsberry and other time-tested cannabis professionals in person, and get answers to all of your burning questions at the International Cannabis Business Conference! ICBC returns to San Francisco on February 1st and 2nd at the Hyatt Embarcadero. Prices jump on January 31st, so get your tickets today!

Featured photo credit: SF Weekly

Los Angeles Dispensaries Begin Adult-Use Cannabis Sales

Written by Amber Iris Langston on January 22, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco.

On Saturday, January 20th, Los Angeles joined the growing number of California cities which have begun official implementation of the Proposition 64 and are now selling cannabis for recreational use to adults aged 21+.

Despite significant consumer demand for cannabis in the nation’s second-largest city, the municipality has not quickly embraced regulatory oversight and has lagged behind other local governances in permitting cannabis outfits, even when the only laws on the books were medical.

From NBCNews:

“Los Angeles was slow to issue regulations for marijuana sales to any adult over age 21, though a 2016 ballot measure had cleared the way for the practice anywhere in California. The state’s biggest city approved about two dozen business for legal “adult” sales on Jan. 13, but they still awaited a final stamp of approval from the state. That came through for at least three of the businesses Friday evening.

“…[L]egal cannabis dispensary owners became frustrated that Los Angeles lagged behind neighbors like West Hollywood and Santa Ana in clearing the way for way for recreational use sales. The business people complained that the lack of government approval meant that customers were still going to the 700 or more shops in the city that don’t have licenses and don’t pay taxes.

“The permitting of the three Los Angeles dispensaries (including one downtown and another on Robertson Boulevard on the Westside) brought to 164 the number of businesses permitted statewide to sell marijuana for recreational use. Hundreds more are expected as the system, and demand, ramps up.”

As more California localities bring legalization online, the state will see greater economic benefits as revenue comes into the state’s coffers and jobs are created all across the state. While LA has been too slow to implement regulations, our nation’s second-largest city will play a huge part in our continuing fight to end cannabis prohibition across the nation. With Golden State officials standing behind the burgeoning marijuana industry, it is clear that the future is bright in LA and across the world’s sixth-largest economy.

California’s cannabis market is moving forward quickly, so don’t get left behind! Stay informed of the latest on market trends, get advice from trusted professionals, and network with the hottest emerging cannabis entrepreneurs at the International Cannabis Business Conference happening February 1st and 2nd in San Francisco at the Hyatt Embarcadero. Get your tickets today!

Top Cannabis CTO Explains How to Roll Over 5 Million Pre-Rolls in a Year

Written by Anthony Johnson on January 19, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco.

This article by Oscar Pascual was originally published by Smell The Truth:

As cannabis smoking accessories become more advanced and hi-tech, there’s nothing that beats a well-rolled joint.

The success of Wagner Dimas, Inc. is living proof. The company, co-founded by CTO Mitchell Wagner, developed a platform that led to the manufacturing of over 5 million pre-filled joints and cones in 2017 — by far the most made in California, and perhaps the world.

Wagner Dimas’ platform has been licensed in California to the company Herban Engineers, which uses the technology to produce and package pre-rolls for over 30 top brands, cultivators and dispensaries across California, including Speciale, the brand exclusively featuring 2107 Emerald Cup winning best overall flower strain, and best cbd strain.

The massive success behind their platform is the reason why Wagner will be featured to speak at a tech panel for the upcoming International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco February 1-2.

In anticipation of the event, Wagner was gracious enough to answer a few questions about the current and future landscape of cannabis pre-rolls.

Smell the Truth: What makes a good pre-roll?

Mitchell Wagner: A good pre-roll looks clean and functions properly. Everyone’s preference is a little different, so we make a wide variety with different consumers’ tolerance and taste in mind. Different sizes, shapes and potency. Universally though, we start with the right range of humidity and a proper flower grind. It has to have the right thin paper and be evenly compressed. Not too loose so it will run and draw too much air, but not too tight so it doesn’t breathe. Most of all, it contains good flower.

StT: It seems like cannabis products are rapidly becoming more advanced by the day. What is it that makes people always come back to an old fashioned rolled joint?

Wagner: Cannabis flower is pretty amazing by itself. There’s nothing quite like the real thing, and many tech fads and advancements won’t stick. Pre-rolls are just another flower format that works great and that people are used to, almost nostalgic about. Like hugging an old friend. In my opinion, vape pens tend to provide a weaker sensation and edibles can be unpredictable with a delayed effect. Smoke straight from flower has a broader chemical range than when it’s refined, and that makes a difference in the sensation. Convenience plays a big role too. It’s nice to have only a lighter and a pre-roll. You don’t have to plug it in, and it’s a lot more simple than lugging around a bag, papers, a grinder, pipes, or the myriad of other accessories people use.

StT: What separates your technology from what’s available in the marketplace?

Wagner: Vibratory machines are the industry standard for small scale production, but they fail when it comes to even compression. When you dissect that process you find some big flaws. Tobacco machines are designed for a completely different material, so they’re pretty useless when it comes to cannabis. We’ve patented our platform and it’s uniquely designed to meet the market demands of the future. We’ve bought, tried and studied every other method of pre-roll production known to humanity. Everyone falls short somewhere. Our systems produce an evenly compressed pre-roll at speeds faster than all pre-roll manufacturing methods. There is a lot more to the manufacturing than just rolling up some flower, so we’re focused on building whole factories instead of single machines. We’re really working on different volume scale from everything else available out there.

StT: What products other than pre-rolls are you working on?

Wagner: Most things we work on are pre-roll related. We like to stay in our lane and focus on what we’re good at. We work a lot on increasing product variety and making pre-rolls faster while maintaining quality. Our pre-roll platform is our cornerstone, and we look at ways to enhance that first. But, there are a lot of holes in cannabis tech that need to be filled. We have 6 full-time engineers who are really creative, so I like to feed them fresh problems to solve. If we see a big problem in the business that needs to be solved, we’ll explore the solutions. We invest heavily in strategic failure so we can gain tech knowledge about what works, and what doesn’t. If we can devise a patentable solution it’s a bonus. We’ve found 2 big ones so far, and have 9 more inventions at various stages in our pipeline. All of which are top secret of course.

StT: Is there a legal market in a state or country that you’re particularly excited about?

Wagner: California is our first priority, but it’s the most advanced and competitive market and it’s huge. But, I’d say Canada is looking like an exciting market if it goes adult use in July. They’ve already gained some big advantages with their ability to raise funds on the public markets. Also, their ability to export could have a big impact on how cannabis is consumed around the world. Im also excited our equipment was recently approved in Nevada, so we’re excited to get going there. I love an excuse to visit Vegas and pre-rolls work great for tourists. We’ve had a lot of conversations with folks in other markets too, but we’re trying to prioritize and grow organically. We’ll have a busy 2018 trying to get factories set up in the best municipalities where we’re welcome.

StT: Are there any specific topics you’re looking forward to discussing at ICBC?

Wagner: I love to talk about the latest in tech in general. I always hope to learn a thing or two, and ICBC is great for that. I’ve been to all the local ICBCs and I’m proud that over the years I could navigate my way onto to a panel. It’s been a lot of work and like to share a few important things I’ve learned along the way with a whole lot of trial and error. I’d like to help attendees maximize the value of their crops with packaged goods and find easy ways to add efficiencies to their own operations. I think another good topic is how cultivators and retailers are going to combat the pending wholesale price drop of flower. As the market floods with buds from large scale grows, a race to the bottom emerges. The sizes of some of the operations coming online this year are staggering. I’m curious to hear everyones’ opinion on how that will shake up the business. We’re seeing it play now in Washington state and looks like a bloodbath for stand alone cultivators. I think it is a natural progression towards efficiency, and our solution is a transition to consumer packaged goods that work off entirely different margins.

StT: What’s in store for the future of the pre-roll segment?

Wagner: A whole lot of growth. I think that’s true for most consumer packaged goods within the space. We’ve seen strong market share growth within pre-rolls, especially in adult use markets. I also think consolidation is inevitable in any manufacturing segment with large demand. We have a pretty inclusive approach, and encourage that in our licensing partners. The tech offers more pre-rolls than most brands can distribute, so it makes sense for local partners to manufacture for other brands with their own flower and distribution channels. It’s inevitably more efficient and inexpensive to run on larger economies of scale with production, so contract manufacturing will be the standard for most brands. Those who build powerful brands that can meet demand and grow, will be success stories.

State of California Moves Toward Protection of Cannabis Brands

Written by Amber Iris Langston on January 18, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco.

In a move bound to make a wave-making impact, the State of California has announced a decision which could eventually impact cannabis businesses nationwide. The California Secretary of State’s office will begin accepting applications for trademarks on cannabis products and services.

That’s great! That means businesses are going to have some serious protection in potential legal action. But by no means does that mean all bases are covered – you still cannot receive federal trademark protection for a federally illegal substance. However, beginning the process of protecting your brand is crucial for product development and protection from nefarious competitors.

From Marijuana.com:

Businesses will only be able to secure a trademark in the State of California, leaving their intellectual property, branding, and other valuable assets defenseless nationwide. Because interstate trade of federally-prohibited items is still a serious crime, California cannabis businesses can only operate within state lines, but consumers in other states may not be aware of this when they see a recognizable brand on their local shelves.

Cannabis flower, and the concentrates made from it, are difficult products to brand, due in no small part to the confusing way marijuana has been named over the years. Some cultivators have developed strains through generations of selective breeding only to have that name used by other growers with a similar plant. The ability to trademark cannabis products within the state alleviates some of this concern for new products but comes with challenges for existing strain names.

(Attorney Stewart) Richlin alluded to this concern, explaining, ‘it’s good to be able to protect names as long as it’s not used in a tricky way or someone tries to protect a name that is already public. A difficulty with trademarking cannabis is flavors or strains that are already in the public domain. It will be interesting to see if companies change strains to trademarkable names. If someone were to trademark ‘Grape Ape,’ what will collectives already selling it do? Now, it’s a court case where one person is going to steal a name that many use. Some retailers will modify the name to a similar variation, i.e. Grape ‘Monkey.’ Consumers will be confused. When they go looking for Grape Ape, retailers will say, ‘we have Grape Monkey.'”

Avoid the confusion! Learn best practices for branding and marketing at the International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco on February 1st and 2nd. You don’t want to miss the ICBC panel on “Mainstreaming Cannabis Content and Experiences”, moderated by PRØHBTD Media’s Drake Sutton-Shearer. Get your tickets today!

Compliance – and the Dangers of Not Doing It, In California (or Anywhere)

Written by Amber Iris Langston on January 11, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

Compliance. Have you heard of it? It’s a thing. An important thing.

As a political animal myself, I can enjoy some pretty boring things more than most, such as reading 200 pages of statutory regulations or listening to several recorded hours of a Board of Commissioners meeting. It’s not terribly fun, but I like to know what is going on.

It’s a lot of upkeep, too. Public feedback is ongoing and regulations are constantly changing while the country tries to figure out WTF needs to be done to have a safe and effective cannabis policy. For that reason, a whole host of people have emerged to be your consultants (as they have throughout various sectors of the cannabis industry) who want to help you make sure you’re doing all the things you need to do in order to not run afoul of law enforcement.

As it turns out, not everyone in the cannabis industry knows what they are doing (she said, shocked by the news.) This week was a telling reminder for some California companies to remember due diligence when seeking advice.

Capitol Compliance Management in Sacramento had to shutter a cannabis event planned for today that had been in the works for some time.

From the Sacramento Bee:

“Capitol Compliance Management and its nine affiliated dispensaries have been running advertisements in the Sacramento News & Review for a ‘Holiday Budtender Bash’ that was scheduled for Thursday.

“Joe Devlin, the city’s chief of cannabis policy and enforcement, said the company canceled the event after he told them it would violate state and city laws by allowing public consumption of marijuana and by giving it away.

“Advertisements for the party promised attendees could ‘smoke out with your favorite budtenders’ – the equivalent of bartenders in the dispensary world. They also promoted ‘vendor giveaways’ and a ‘dab bar,’ where people can smoke a controversial form of concentrated cannabis. VIP tickets cost a ‘minimum $300 donation.'”

That’s a big no-no. It should also be of absolutely no surprise, as lack of public consumption or giveaways is a giant source of ire and frustration for many-an-event-planner in California. This is a widely-known restriction and quite baffling that a company which represents nine dispensaries in the city which hosts the state legislature, would have missed such a basic component of legal compliance.

There are so many ways to muck up a cannabis company. Don’t muck yours up with bad business partnerships! Come be part of the International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco on February 1st and 2nd, 2018. Ticket prices will go up soon so get yours today!

Bong and a Bock? California Craft Beer Industry Embraces Cannabis

Written by Amber Iris Langston on January 10, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco.

I live in Portland, so I am lucky in a lot of ways. I have a cannabis dispensary just around the block, and in typical Portland fashion, there’s a small, local brewpub just across the street from the dispensary with trivia on Monday nights. I have access to have good, local beer anytime I want, pretty much anywhere I am in the city.

Cannabis is safer than alcohol, and it’s a good point to remind people. I think it’s great that people are using cannabis as substitute for harder drugs like alcohol or opioids. But that doesn’t mean good beer isn’t delicious, or that we have to give up responsible consumption. The brewpub is still chugging along. The neighbors still come in to watch sports or play a game. It’s just that now they might swing by Papa Buds for an easy pre-roll on the way home.

There has been a lot of hullabaloo over the past several years about what effect legalization will have on the alcohol industry. Primarily, the enthusiasm of recent converts to cannabis medicine who see the plant as a substitute and healer of potentially-lethal addictions, promote the idea that there will be a decrease in drinking and that’s a good thing. Others in the restaurant and hotel business have worried about their bottom line being effected by such substitution.

Have alcohol sales decreased in states with legal marijuana? In a word, yes.

But that doesn’t seem to bother the craft beer industry in California. Online publication BrewBound recently polled several beer industry professionals in California regarding their opinions on the newly-legal cannabis industry in the Golden State. Here are a few of their responses:

Tom McCormick, Executive Director, California Craft Brewers Association: “It hasn’t been hard to get cannabis in California, and pretty much anybody who wants to smoke cannabis has been able to get cannabis and been able to get it very easily on the black market. I think maybe over time there will be a gradual increase in the number of people who become regular or semi-regular users of cannabis, now that it’s no longer on the black market. But for the demographics who are the primary beer drinkers and especially for the demographics who are the primary craft beer drinkers, I think they’ve already had access to cannabis, so there won’t be a dramatic increase in the number of craft beer drinkers who are now using cannabis or using cannabis more.”

Jacob McKean, Founder and CEO, Modern Times Beer: “If anyone can speak to the foolishness of prohibition, it’s brewers, so I welcome the end of cannabis prohibition for a whole host of reasons. I just hope the federal government follows suit sooner rather than later, so that craft beverage companies can capitalize on new opportunities created by legalization.”

Lynne Weaver, Founder, Three Weavers Brewing: “I just really don’t think it’s going to be that huge of an impact. I think those who are users are already users and will continue to use, and those who are not most likely aren’t going to be interested anyway, whether it is legalized or not. I just don’t see it being a massive, massive impact. If you look at Colorado or even Washington, a lot of our friends were like there were some [effects], but nothing drastic. And the tax associated with marijuana is so high that it’s almost cost prohibitive.”

Well. That last sentence kind of hurt, but I’m not disagreeing. For me, these statements confirm what I already have learned in working the alcohol industry in the past – people are already using cannabis, and there’s no reason to be afraid.

Learn what California (and other) professionals are thinking on the ground and in person next month at the International Cannabis Business Conference, happening February 1st & 2nd in San Francisco, California, at the Hyatt Embarcadero. Get your tickets before prices go up!

Cannabis Sanctuary State? California Looking to Strike Back Against Sessions

Written by Amber Iris Langston on January 9, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

Last week’s announcement by US Attorney General Jeff Sessions to rescind protections on state-legal cannabis programs sent a shockwave through the fledgling industry around the country. Specifically, the federal guidelines from the US Justice Department put in place by Eric Holder during the Obama years known as The Cole Memo. That shockwave hit – and then it bounced back.

Legislators and public law enforcers in states ranging from Colorado to Oregon to New York to Oklahoma fired back at Sessions and the Trump administration over the past week in both symbolic and overt gestures, blasting the reversal of policy and the back-tracking of campaign promises by the 45th president, who vowed to uphold states’ rights on cannabis.

A number of California leaders have also jumped in the fray, some long-term advocates of change such as Gavin Newsom, and some perhaps looking to score political points with a now-popular issue. (Ahem, Kamala Harris.)

Now, a state lawmaker from Los Angeles, Democrat Reggie Jones-Sawyer, wants to create a “marijuana sanctuary” in the State of California, citing the egregious toll the drug war takes on communities of color.

From the Sacramento Bee:

“‘The impacts of this ill-conceived and poorly executed war are still being felt by communities of color across the state,’ Jones-Sawyer said in a statement. ‘The last time California supported the federal government’s efforts, families were torn apart and critical state resources were used to incarcerate more black and brown people than ever before in the history of our state.’

“Jones-Sawyer said he’d work with Gov. Jerry Brown and the Legislature to advance his 2017 proposal, Assembly Bill 1578. The bill stalled in the Senate in June after clearing the Assembly floor.

“Modeled after California’s new law that restricts law enforcement agencies’ ability to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, helping shield undocumented immigrants from widespread deportation, the bill seeks to prevent state and local agencies from helping federal drug enforcement agencies target the state’s burgeoning marijuana industry without a federal court order.”

While California struggles to find the right balance in their own regulations which will support disenfranchised communities and allow for broad access to entrepreneurial endeavors in 2018, one thing is clear. The cannabis movement remains tied to a fight for social justice. California has already been an unofficial “marijuana sanctuary” for decades. Let’s see if the state is ready to codify that status and take a bold stance against federal interference.

If you are in the cannabis industry, or are thinking of joining, the International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco, this February 1st & 2nd, is THE marijuana event for you. Learn the latest about California’s regulations, what may be on the horizon, and how businesses can best avoid federal interference. Early Bird tickets are on sale now. Get your tickets now before prices go up!

California Officials Respond to Jeff Sessions

Written by Amber Iris Langston on January 5, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

If you are in the cannabis industry, you probably heard the news yesterday which sent waves of fear and confusion throughout the country for every player in the marijuana market. Cannabis stocks took a dive, and everyone called their lawyers looking for hope and reassurance.

US Attorney General Jeff Sessions moved to rescind the Cole Memo, the one piece of federal guidance the cannabis industry has had on which to base state and local regulations. The memo was put in place by former US Attorney General Eric Holder under the Obama administration and provided a directive to federal law enforcement about which circumstances would precipitate their involvement in a cannabis case. Unfortunately, this was merely a guideline and never an actual law, something misunderstood by many with investment in the marijuana world. Now, the outline of protection provided by the Cole Memo is gone, and cannabis operators can expect to begin seeing an uptick in police raids and asset forfeiture.

Of course, for those of us who have been fighting in the trenches for years on this issue, this is not totally a surprise. We have rolled our eyes at every person who has said in the past five years, “Legalization is inevitable.”

Legalization is not inevitable. This is a war, remember? And we can expect our opponents to fight with their last dying breaths.

Fortunately, we do have a battery of new weapons for the fight – we now have major institutions (state governments and regulatory bodies) which have embraced the new ethos of legal cannabis, for both medical and adult use, and public persons whose livelihoods are supported by an issue more popular than apple pie.

The timing of the announcement comes just on the heels of California’s official foray into legal sales for adult use. The response of our new allies has been quick and sharp.

Lori Ajax, Director of California’s Bureau of Cannabis Control:

“The administration is conferring with the California Attorney General and other states in response to this action. We expect the federal government to respect the rights of states and the votes of millions of people across America and if they won’t, Congress should act. Regardless, we’ll continue to move forward with the state’s regulatory processes covering both medicinal and adult-use cannabis consistent with the will of California’s voters, while defending our state’s laws to the fullest extent.”

California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom, who has long been a key ally on this issue, gave a solid soundbite with words echoing that of the broader drug policy reform movement:

“Jeff Sessions has destructively doubled down on the failed, costly, and racially discriminatory war on drugs, ignoring facts and logic, and trampling on the will of CA voters.

“Have no doubt — CA will pursue all options to protect our reforms and rights.”

California Republican Representative Dana Rohrabacher, co-sponsor of the Rohrabacher-Blumenauer amendment and longtime supporter of President Trump issued this statement:

“The attorney general of the United States has just delivered an extravagant holiday gift to the drug cartels. By attacking the will of the American people, who overwhelmingly favor marijuana legalization, Jeff Sessions has shown a preference for allowing all commerce in marijuana to take place in the black market, which will inevitably bring the spike in violence he mistakenly attributes to marijuana itself. He is doing the bidding of an out-of-date law enforcement establishment that wants to wage a perpetual weed war and seize private citizens’ property in order to finance its backward ambitions.

“This is a profound misreading of the Constitution, which allows states, not the heavy-handed federal government, to determine such issues. How ironic that the attorney general has long championed states’ rights when it suits other parts of his agenda! More than that, by attacking the clear will of the American people, the attorney general contradicts President Trump’s campaign pledges to leave medical and recreational marijuana questions for the states to decide. By taking this benighted minority position, he actually places Republicans’ electoral fortunes in jeopardy.”

Clearly, the fight is on. And as an old friend of mine once astutely observed about the movement: “We’ve already taken a stand. It’s not like we’re going to sit back down.”

Still, this recent move is a reminder that change does not come free or easily. I strongly encourage everyone in cannabis to give to the groups working hard for years to make progress in Washington, DC. Become a member of the National Cannabis Industry Association, whose primary goal is to represent the industry at the federal level, donate to groups such as Drug Policy Alliance and Students for Sensible Drug Policy which focus on ending social injustice related to the drug war and Americans for Safe Access which has long fought the government on behalf of patients, particularly during federal raids.

There has never been a more important time than now to join the fight and get involved! Learn more about all the fast-changing parts of the cannabis industry at the next International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco, California, on February 1st and 2nd. Get your tickets today before prices go up!

Cannabis Commerce in California Means Regulatory Compliance

Written by Anthony Johnson on January 4, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

The early lines at newly-licensed California cannabis retail outlets are just a preview of the vast economic opportunities available in the Golden State. However, in California, which led our recent cannabis revolution by voting to legalize medical use back in 1996, not everything will be rainbows and sunshine as regulatory hurdles remain. Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ decision to rescind Obama’s Cole Memo makes compliance with state and local regulations even more important as violations can be an excuse for federal prosecutions.

Newsweek describes some of the issues facing the industry:

Even though California has officially legalized, not every city is selling, and there are many questions about day-to-day use left unanswered. Cities had to decide on their own restrictions for the drug—operating hours for dispensaries, security measures, how close dispensaries could be to schools or public areas, for example. Most people can only smoke in the privacy of their own homes under the new law, and not in public parks or in public buildings, and there’s lingering confusion about how police officers will enforce restrictions on driving under the influence.

Fox describes the status of the state’s cannabis tracking system:

But recreational cannabis sales began this week without the computer system in use for pot businesses. Instead, they are being asked to document sales and transfers of pot manually, using paper invoices or shipping manifests. That raises the potential that an unknown amount of weed will continue slipping into the illicit market, as it has for years.

***

The state Department of Food and Agriculture, which is overseeing the tracking system, said in a statement it was “implemented” Tuesday. However, it conceded that growers and sellers are not required to use it yet and training on how to input data will be necessary before it becomes mandatory, apparently later in the year.

Debby Goldsberry, Executive Director of Magnolia Wellness, has firsthand experience complying with the initial California regulations placed upon retail outlets, securing a state license to start serving all adults over 21 on New Year’s Day. Goldsberry, the author of Starting and Running a Marijuana Business, is a longtime activist with more than 25 years of industry experience. I have long looked up to Ms. Goldsberry for her pioneering accomplishments and I’m proud to call her a friend. Debby will be leading a panel on cannabis compliance at the upcoming International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco on February 1st and 2nd, and she took some time to answer a few questions I had about her experience thus far with legalization regulations in the Golden State:

“What has it been like complying with the initial licensing requirements for Magnolia?”

Debby Goldsberry: It has been costly, time-consuming, and ridiculously burdensome to meet the requirements of the new regulations. We are rightly concerned that the supply of cannabis available to dispensaries will dry up fast, as most of our suppliers are going out of business on January 1. It’s a shocking new reality for us all.

“What do you think will be most challenging for your business, or other businesses in general, when it comes to complying with California’s upcoming regulations?

Goldsberry: We expect to be competing with the underground cannabis market all throughout 2018. Due to the difficulty in getting permits and cost of complying with the new regulations, cannabis will be cheaper and more available through unlicensed providers.

“What are some changes that you would like to see to ease the regulatory burden placed on businesses?”

Goldsberry: Lowered excise taxes is the most important need, beside an equity process to help small businesses get permitted.

“How are you planning on dealing with compliance issues after January 1st? Will you handle it, or will you have to hire a full-time staffer, or train a staffer to have compliance as part of his or her job description?”

Goldsberry: Each and every staff member at Magnolia will have a role in compliance, from security to sales. Our finance and inventory management team will bear the brunt of responsibility for compliance, along with myself, Magnolia’s Executive Director, and our GM, Katie Rabinowitz. Katie and I are supervising the entire compliance plan, making new standard operating procedures and making sure they are implemented.

As we all fight to end cannabis prohibition, the success of California’s experience will be extremely important. To succeed in California, all businesses will need to work hard to comply with state and local regulations while effectively lobbying to ensure that the regulations adapt to the needs of the industry, patients, and consumers. With activists and entrepreneurs with Debby Goldsberry helping lead the way, I’m confident that the future of California cannabis is extremely bright, in spite of the best efforts of Jeff Sessions.

Cannabis Czar Lori Ajax Interviewed Ahead of the ICBC in San Francisco

Written by Anthony Johnson on January 3, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

Unless you have been hiding under a rock, you know that California just legalized cannabis commerce this year. California’s influence, with nearly 40 million people and the world’s 6th largest economy, virtually cannot be overstated in our fight to end the failed and harmful policy of marijuana prohibition. The world is watching and the woman in charge of the Golden State’s regulatory regime is Lori Ajax, Chief of the Bureau of Cannabis Control, aka the Cannabis Czar.

Even with the amount of work she has had to do to bring California’s legalization system online, Ms. Ajax took the time to answer several questions from me, just ahead of her appearance at the International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco this February 1st & 2nd:

Question: The initial rules for California cannabis businesses are now out, how has the feedback been thus far?

Lor Ajax: So far things have been good. I think people realize the initial regulations are a starting point. We welcome continuing feedback about how things are working as the state begins regulating cannabis businesses starting January 1.

Of course, the California marijuana market needs to satisfy the needs of Californians, but have there been any lessons that you have learned from other legalized states that have impacted some of the initial rules?

Ajax: We were fortunate to learn from the other states that have legalized medicinal and adult-use cannabis prior to legalization in California. An important lesson is that many of these states are continually making changes to their regulatory systems to address requirements that may not work as intended or new emerging business models. Even though we have our emergency regulations in place, in early 2018 we will begin the regular rulemaking process, which includes public hearings across the state and a longer comment period.

You decided to issue temporary licenses, what was the thought process behind that?

Ajax: Due to the aggressive timeline to issue licenses by January 1, 2018, we needed to utilize our statutory authority to issue temporary licenses. The temporary licenses will be good for 120 days and during that time the licensee will need to submit a completed annual application to the Bureau for the temporary license to be extended for 90 days.

Keeping the price of cannabis down is a big issue to curtail the illegal market. Are you concerned that the combination of licensing fees, taxes and regulatory costs will unnaturally inflate the cost to consumers and what was your thought process when developing the different fee structures?

Ajax: Our licensing fees are based on the cost to administer our regulatory program, including licensing and enforcement. To assist with minimizing barriers to entry into the cannabis industry, state temporary licenses are free. As for taxes, the Bureau does not control the rate at which cannabis is taxed.

Will you revisit compliance costs if it seems that too many consumers are still drawn to the cheaper prices in the illegal market?

Ajax: We are continually reassessing our program needs, while looking for ways to bring people into the regulated market.

Are you confident that the initial rules will keep the federal government from interfering with California licensees?

Ajax: All we can do is continue to do the work we have in front of us – and there is still quite a bit to do in the early part of 2018. We can’t control the actions of the federal government but we have worked to develop a comprehensive regulatory system that addresses the Cole memorandum concerns to the extent possible.

Have you sought feedback from federal officials or US Attorneys? Any (more) plans to do so in the future?

Ajax: We have not had any contact with the federal government at this point and are focused on the work we have to do to implement our program.

Do you have a set date to reconsider certain rules, or are you waiting for the process to play out? What types of data points will you be most interested in?

Ajax: I think at this point we really want to see how the regulations roll out in early 2018. Throughout this process, we have been open to feedback and making changes, so we will continue to make adjustments. In 2018, as we go through the regular rulemaking process, the emergency regulations will be evaluated and determinations will be made as to which sections should remain or be changed. The regular rulemaking process allows for significant public involvement.

All eyes are on California, the 6th largest economy (maybe soon to be the 5th) in the world, what are you most concerned about in the rollout of the commercial system?

Ajax: A smooth transition is definitely something we are focused on and we hope that the transitional plan we developed will provide for that smooth transition into a regulated market. We are confident that the regulatory system we developed in consultation with a wide variety of stakeholders will serve California well.

California regulators have embarked on a huge task, what have you been most proud of as you and your team have developed these rules?

Ajax: That we were given a big job and we were able to achieve our goal. We started issuing licenses ahead of our January 1 mandate and we did this with a lean but very dedicated and hardworking staff. So many hours were put into getting us to this point and we are hopeful that at the end of the day we have put forth a model that other states will look to as an example when they head down the path to legalization.

Congratulations, California!

Written by Amber Iris Langston on January 2, 2018. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

Yesterday ushered in a new era for cannabis with the world’s sixth-largest economy (California) coming online with legal, adult-use cannabis. January 1st marked the first day stores were allowed to sell the product to anyone over the age of 21 without a doctor’s explicit recommendation.

I would say that people seem pleased, but the word doesn’t even begin to address it. Euphoric? Elated? Ecstatic? Approaching nirvana?

I’m confident that tears were shed by many, mostly tears of joy, though part of me would feel some guilty delight if US Attorney General Jeff “Really Needs a Session” Sessions woke to a little sniveling and blubbering for his start to the new year. Most certainly, he and others of the prohibition ilk must realize their reign of terror is coming to an end, and that freedom is looming large for the cannabis plant.

In fact, a quick view of the news on the website for the country’s strongest group supporting prohibition, Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM), will show that they have not issued any statement whatsoever about California – probably as to not remind people of their failures, I’m guessing. On Google News, the arch-nemesis of cannabis Kevin Sabet, only appears to have one news outlet interested in his opinion about California’s big day.

Meanwhile, the California State Bureau of Cannabis Control cited the success of their 2018 launch:

“‘This is an historic day for the state of California,’ Bureau of Cannabis Control Chief Lori Ajax said. ‘It marks the beginning of a legal cannabis marketplace that will be well regulated in order to protect consumers and maintain a level playing field for cannabis-related businesses. We are hopeful that we have put forth a model that other states will look to as an example when they head down the path to legalization.'”

According to the Bureau, over 400 temporary licenses have been issued for retailers, distributors, microbusinesses, testing laboratories, and event organizers, with additional licensing for manufacturers and cultivators being issued by the California Department of Public Health and the California Department of Food and Agriculture.

This has, of course, led to much revelry for the population. Scores of cannabis enthusiasts queued up in advance of the early morning kickoff to participate in this moment in history. At Berkeley Patients Group, the longest operating cannabis dispensary in the country, saw patrons lining up as early as 3:45 am to wait for doors opening at 6:00. Those early patrons – my dear friends and longtime activists Mikki Norris and Chris Conrad, old friends of cannabis legend Jack Herer.

From Jimi Divine at Cannabis Now:

“What we’re getting are three Jack Herer joints in honor of our friend Jack Herer who worked with us for many years but didn’t survive to see the day,” Conrad said. “We’re buying joints in his name today.” Conrad and Norris also grabbed a dark chocolate bar from Kiva Confections.

Okay, I’m crying now!!

Numbers are still coming out as to how well the open dispensaries have done, but at Berkeley Patients Group, MJBizDaily reports that by noon the shop had completed $22,000 in sales with almost 300 customer transactions in 5 1/2 hours. That kept pace for another 11 1/2 hours, but I will let you do the math. By 10 pm, roughly 1,250 customers had come through the door.

I don’t know about you, but the end of prohibition sounds pretty amazing to me! I wish I could have been in California to participate in the joy for the new year, but I am looking forward to visiting in just one month, on February 1-2, for the International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco (where California Cannabis Czar Lori Ajax will be speaking). I hope you can make it, too. Get your tickets today!

California’s Countdown to Cannabis

Written by Amber Iris Langston on December 29, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Cultural, Politics.

It’s all happening…IT’S REALLY HAPPENING!

This weekend marks the last Friday and Saturday (okay, Sunday, too you everyday smokers) when California adults will have to worry about calling themselves criminals when spark up at parties, shows, or other spaces of entertainment.

Monday, January 1st, 2018 marks the age of a new era – that of legal cannabis for adults.

A quick scan of the news both locally and nationally will show how giddy with excitement the change is for consumers, entrepreneurs and curious onlookers. Truly, bringing the country’s largest economy online with legalization is one of the greatest moments of social reform that many of us could see in our lifetimes.

Unfortunately though, this will not be a seamless transition.

USA Today reports:

“While five other states already offer legal marijuana sales, the Golden State’s sheer size is expected to reshape the pot industry worldwide, potentially driving down prices for consumers while generating hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes. It also holds the promise of wiping out criminal records for some people with previous cannabis convictions and helping longtime illegal drug dealers go legal by getting them licensed.”

“…Many longtime cannabis farmers are struggling with whether to go legal, in part because getting licensed can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Additionally, many longtime marijuana moonshiners are culturally opposed to playing by the rules. For generations, they have secretly grown vast quantities of pot destined for black-market users across America.”

Chiah Rodriques, operations director for a cannabis collective called Mendocino Generations, lamented today in an op-ed to the Washington Post that he is fearful his simple way of life is about to end.

“We knew that our secret lifestyle was unique and that it was also illegal and scary at times. We had to live a sort of undercover existence that our grandparents would cringe at if they knew their grandchildren lived barefoot and dirty, homeschooled and unruly in the hills, while our parents grew, trimmed and sold cannabis.

“We never imagined that the biggest threat to our lifestyle could be legalization. But the new regulations allow unlimited growing licenses, which means venture capitalists will be able to create mega-cannabis corporations. The market is already flooded with cannabis from neighboring states. We’re about to see a tsunami hit California.”

The growing pains for this new industry are being felt deep and wide. And thus far, only a few locations in the state are even going to be ready to sell on the legal adult market on Monday. GreenState.com has put together this nifty little map to show what places have been approved to join the legal market next week.

There are surprisingly few, in my opinion, so we will be watching closely as localities move forward in the coming months to parse out this bureaucratic mess. Regardless of who ends up cornering the market(s) and who feels the reality of failed business enterprise, it’s still better than seeing good people go to prison and maybe finally adults can stop feeling so paranoid when they consume cannabis.

The International Cannabis Business Conference has you covered on all things California! Join the experts on February 1-2, 2018 in San Francisco for the most current in cannabis changes. Early bird tickets are on sale now!

California Cops and Cannabis Shenanigans, Big Changes Are Coming

Written by Amber Iris Langston on December 28, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

Led by Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP), many people in law enforcement have rightfully cheered the changes in cannabis policies over the last few years, citing the virtual harmlessness of cannabis compared with other substances including alcohol, and an ability for them to focus their time and resources on crimes that directly impact public safety.

However, we also know that relinquishing power – any kind of power – that persons have over other persons will often result in backlash and attempt to hold onto such power until the last dying breath. It would seem there are also many in law enforcement who do not want to yield their position to rope good people into the criminal justice system because quite simply to them “marijuana is bad, mkay.”

It looks like bad luck struck last week for some legit cannabis providers in northern California’s Mendocino County. According to ABC News:

“The workers for Old Kai Distribution were transporting the marijuana from a farm when they were pulled over Friday afternoon by a California Highway Patrol officer on Highway 101 near Ukiah, according to Joe Rogoway, an attorney for the company. They were driving an unmarked van and were stopped for a traffic violation.

“The workers showed the officer the company’s county license and a manifest for the marijuana, but the officer insisted it was illegal, called for backup and arrested the men.”

The new roll-out for adult-use legalization in California has caused a great deal of a headache and confusion, but operations which have previously been permitted under medical regulations and have received approval for temporary licensure by local governmental bodies should be allowed to move forward and act in good faith to prepare for their newly protected rights to produce, manufacture, deliver, and sell cannabis. The justification by law enforcement is clearly bogus, suggesting that there are no legal protections before January 1st, and that their officers are very concerned about “drugged drivers” – so that’s probably why they were pulled over and arrested:

“The officer who made the Ukiah stop was not targeting the business, said Stanley, who is not aware of any other arrests of a locally licensed marijuana operation. CHP primarily is concerned with drivers who could be high behind the wheel and the agency has trained 97 percent of its officers and sergeants in advanced drugged driving recognition skills, he said. Stanley commented after a ceremony for CHP Officer Andrew Camilleri, who was killed on Christmas Eve by a driver believed to be drunk and high.”

I hope the victims from Old Kai Distribution can come out ahead of this, considering their entire harvest was basically stolen by these jerks who clearly care more about their own bruised authority than the intent of the law. At least we will be reading fewer of these stories in 2018, theoretically.

What can California companies do to protect themselves from unjust police interactions? Learn about best practices and much more at the International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC) in San Francisco February 1st and 2nd. With California Cannabis Czar Lori Ajax taking questions, you’ll be getting the answers you need to succeed. Don’t delay in getting your Early Bird Tickets at discounted prices as the event is expected to sell out.

SFGate Interviews ICBC Speaker Lori Ajax, California Cannabis Czar

Written by ICBC Staff on December 26, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco.

Just before California is about to officially legalize marijuana on January 1st, and ahead of her 2nd appearance at the International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco, SFGate (via its Smell the Truth cannabis blog) interviewed Lori Ajax, the Golden State’s Cannabis Czar. Ajax, Chief of the Bureau of Cannabis Control, discusses issues such as the current licensing system, lessons learned and how future improvements to the regulatory system may be made.

Some of the interview on SFGate.com:

StT: What are the most vital lessons that you’ve learned from states that have previously introduced legal sales and regulations?

Ajax: We were fortunate to learn from the other states that have legalized medicinal and adult-use cannabis prior to legalization in California. An important lesson is that many of these states are continually making changes to their regulatory systems to address requirements that may not work as intended or new emerging business models. Even though we have our emergency regulations in place, in early 2018 we will begin the regular rulemaking process, which includes public hearings across the state and a longer comment period.

StT: Several medical cannabis businesses will certainly apply for recreational licenses. What will be their standing in the interim while applications are considered?

Ajax: All businesses wishing to operate on or after January 1 must have a state license to do so legally. Temporary licenses are available for both medicinal and adult-use activities.

The entire interview is certainly worth reading, as Ajax has the biggest, and probably the most difficult, job in the cannabis industry, leading the world’s 6th largest economy into the realm of legal, regulated cannabis commerce. While the future is always uncertain, it is clear that the economic opportunities in California are huge. Legal marijuana will create job, generate revenue and lead to more freedom for the California cannabis community.

Don’t miss California Cannabis Czar, Lori Ajax, as well as other regulators and industry experts at the upcoming International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco on February 1st and 2nd. The event is expected to sell out, so don’t delay in getting your early-bird priced ticket.

Unions Battle for a Place at the Cannabis Table in California

Written by Amber Iris Langston on December 26, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

The tension between employers and employees is an age-old problem, and the advantage of one group over the other seems to swing like a political pendulum. As cannabis moves into its new market space in California, workers are hoping to figure out how they can use their collective power to demand fair rights for themselves.

Indeed, the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) union has been showing interest in their future role in the cannabis industry for a number of years. As the January 1st roll-out deadline approaches, industry players are anxious to make their marks early and strong. James Araby, executive director of the UFCW Western States Council spoke recently to KQED News about what he sees as a vital aspect of the emerging industry:

“‘We’ve found in this industry that many workers were paid in cash or product or not paid at all, that many of their rights were violated, and that some might not know that they even have rights,’ Araby said. ‘They can be working 12-hour days and not be getting paid overtime.’

“As marijuana becomes increasingly commercialized, there is a worry that big corporations will come in and push down wages. The ‘Walmartization of weed’ is a phrase that is thrown around a lot these days by workers and growers in the industry. Araby said there is an opportunity right now for the union to carve out protections for workers.

“…Only a handful of dispensaries in California are unionized, but Araby said the UFCW is reaching out now to get other cannabis operations on board.”

What happens next is anyone’s guess. Unions play a strong role in many of California’s industries and enjoy strong support among the state’s citizens. However, unions have also received backlash from many for what some see as onerous and overly-burdensome practices. Will a strong cannabis union emerge to rival organizations such as the UFCW? Will an established union push its way into that space? Will cannabis become a California industry that exists in an unlikely space of having non-union workers?

Stay tuned!

The International Cannabis Business Conference will be coming to San Francisco on February 1-2, 2018, discussing all of the most important issues in the cannabis industry. Get your tickets today!

Californians Will Soon Take a Closer Look at Pesticides on Cannabis

Written by Amber Iris Langston on December 20, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics, Science.

In California, cannabis consumers are about to get a strong dose of cannabis legalization.

As the state moves into the new adult-use market on January 1st, dispensaries will be selling product off the shelves of entities only recently and temporarily licensed.

That means, of course, that California is about to experience the birthing pains of ensuring quality, lab-tested products to their customers, pains very similar to those in states like Colorado, Oregon New Mexico, and others.

Ironically, with our previous, laid-back systems of providing medicine to patients, the rigors of ensuring product quality and safety has not risen to the level of other market items – not to the standards of foods or herbal supplements, much less pharmaceuticals. Now, with the clear need for greater oversight, purveyors of the plant will have to meet the new standards.

US News and World Report commented this week on the new testing requirements for California:

“Juan Hidalgo, agricultural commissioner for Santa Cruz County, said pesticides are a top concern, and he wants to know what is being applied and whether workers on site are protected. Farmers who spray their own pesticides have to get a certificate from the commissioner that requires passing a test and taking refresher courses every three years.”

While education of pesticide use will play a key role in management of healthy cannabis production for human consumption, not everyone agrees that total elimination of pesticides is necessary. Mike Winder, manager of The Green Easy in Los Angeles, suggested:

“‘I think it’s a little funny that this year everybody’s caring about pesticides,” he said. “People have been smoking weed 30, 40, 50 years, and it’s never been an issue.’

“Winderman said he wouldn’t be surprised to find shops snapping up inventory now to avoid taxes that will take effect Jan. 1 and because some popular products may not be available if small producers who don’t want to pay registration fees drop out of the industry.”

Whatever the feelings of cannabis-growing veterans, the new regulations are here to stay (although there will be some reforms). Whatever pesticides might end up being used on cannabis in the future, and whether you are ambivalent towards pesticides or the thought of them sends you scurrying, consumers will soon have much greater control over their purchases in this regard.

However, while the law is set to go into effect January 1st, experts warn untested cannabis from the pre-2018 market will still be allowed on the shelves and consumers end up buying what is now called “tainted cannabis” (formerly called “cannabis”) for another six months or so.

If you want to stay on top of the evolving California legalization roll-out, including pesticide regulations, the International Cannabis Business Conference has you covered. Come hear all that you need to know, and network with other industry professionals, on February 1st and 2nd in San Francisco. Get your tickets today!

January 1st, 2018 – California Cannabis Enters the Future

Written by Amber Iris Langston on December 19, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco.

January 1st, 2018.

It’s the date on everyone’s mind in the cannabis world. It’s the date recreational sales become legal in the mighty market that is California.

Adult use cannabis becomes legal in the Golden State on the first day of the new year, and there’s a lot people want to know about what that process looks like. For the entrepreneur, there are big questions about licensing regulation, with not a lot of easy answers. Primarily, that’s because local governments determine the how those rules are shaped in each of their own provinces. Boards of Supervisors everywhere are having conversations this month to decide what local implementation looks like.

Unfortunately it is not as straightforward as it sounds. (Does it sound straightforward?)

The state is charged with creating a standard set of rules to guide licensing that will act as a sort of default and foundation for local regulations, and those rules need to be in place by the first of January. But since dispensaries are allowed to sell on that same day, businesses need to be ready from the get go, and compliant with…something.

From USA Today:

“(California Cannabis Czar Lori Ajax) expects the Bureau of Cannabis Control’s online application system will open in December and that the BCC will begin emailing temporary licenses to retailers before the new year. The licenses will become valid on Jan. 1.”

That means over the next month, county and city commissions are scrambling to create emergency regulations for approval of temporary licenses. Unfortunately, that also means some areas won’t have any adult-use dispensaries, if local boards vote against such activity. For those areas which allow for recreational licensing, dispensaries will submit paperwork to the Bureau of Cannabis Control in Sacramento showing they have local approval.

“…dispensaries already selling medicinal marijuana can choose whether they want a medicinal license, an adult-use license or both, provided the shop labels its merchandise “A” for adult or “M” for medicinal and keeps separate transaction records.”

Temporary licenses will last 120 days with the possibility of further extensions.

For the most part, consumers can expect to see dispensaries operating similarly to what they have in the past for medical purposes, but there will be some notable differences. First, product samples must meet testing requirements, and the quantities of THC and CBD must be labeled. Second, cannabis cannot be sold if it has been removed from packaging in order to smell and more closely inspect the product, both very reasonable practice from a public health perspective.

As with all policy everywhere, creating regulation is an ongoing process. One can be assured that there will be changes continuing at the state and local levels for the expanding cannabis market.

Stay on top of California’s cannabis industry changes with the International Cannabis Business Conference! Our next event will take place in San Francisco on February 1st and 2nd, 2018. Get your tickets today!

Entrepreneur Magazine Covers ICBC Kauai

Written by Anthony Johnson on December 15, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, CBC San Francisco, CBC Vancouver, ICBC Berlin.

The International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC), since its very first event in September of 2014 in Portland, Oregon, has grown and expanded with the cannabis industry, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors and activists together around the globe. ICBC founder Alex Rodgers understood the need to provide a proper venue for marijuana business professionals to learn and network, seeking out locales that were primed for such gatherings. In addition to locations,

Rodgers also understood the important issue of timing. The Portland ICBC took place a month and a half before Oregon voted to legalize cannabis. The latest ICBC, in Kauai, Hawaii, occurred a few months after medical marijuana dispensaries were officially opened for business, just a month ahead of the state moving forward towards implementing rules to recognize the legality of all state-registered patients.

The next ICBC, in San Francisco, will be held February 1-2, just one month after the world’s sixth largest economy has implemented cannabis commerce for all adults. When the ICBC heads back to Berlin in April, we’ll be checking in on the progress Germany has had expanding its medical program. When the ICBC returns to Vancouver, Canada, in June of 2018, attendees will be learning and networking the month before Justin Trudeau’s government is expected to start allowing legalized sales to adults.

As the ICBC has grown, so has the overall cannabis industry. More and more mainstream media outlets are taking notice, such as Entrepreneur Magazine, which covered the International Cannabis Business Conference Kauai event:

Liberal voters and cannabis advocates can be loud and proud in Hawaii. Even conservatives in the Aloha State don’t match the profile of mainland conservatives. Many are pro-gay rights, believe in climate change and even support cannabis legalization.

Perhaps that’s in-part what made the island of Kauai a perfect host to the recent International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC) December 1-3, 2017. Hawaii is just one stop of the ICBC conference series that takes place around the world in emerging cannabis markets like Berlin and Vancouver.

***

When you visit a destination, you learn more about it. Cannabis in Hawaii was no exception. Bringing local cannabis thought leaders, eager Hawaiian entrepreneurs and passionate activists together is precisely how to generate education around and visibility to the plant.

It’s definitely worth your time to check out the entire Entrepreneur article by Andre Bourque on the Kauai ICBC, a truly one-of-a-kind cannabis destination event. Hawaii’s progress is very important as the cannabis community ends prohibition state by state, country by country. Everyone involved with the International Cannabis Business Conference, myself included, looks forward to being there every step of the way.

California Launches Online Portal for Cannabis Businesses

Written by Amber Iris Langston on December 14, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco.

Alex Padilla, the Secretary of State of California, just made an important announcement in advance of the closely-approaching January 1st embarkation date for legal adult-use cannabis in California.

The Secretary of State launched a new website called Cannabizfile, in order to help streamline the process for cannabis business licensing in the country’s biggest economy for what promises to be an onslaught of eager entrepreneurs.

The State agency already hosts a similar website for persons looking to launch every other kind of business, called Bizfile. But as we all know, the cannabis industry is not like any other. Add that to the mad rush of a new industry, add that to an industry that has been producing the country’s leading (underground) cash crop for years, and it’s probably a good idea to have a uniquely-tailored, online presence.

From the OC Register:

“Many of the steps are the same ones every new venture in California faces, Padilla said, from determining what type of business they want to be to registering their unique name. But they decided they needed a cannabis-specific portal because there are some particular considerations for cannabis businesses, he said, such as the ability to form cannabis cooperative associations. Also, Padilla said there was concern that aspiring cannabis entrepreneurs could bog down or crash the regular Secretary of State’s site come Jan. 1.

“‘I can’t recall – not only in recent memory, but in a recent decade — any industry of this magnitude that became legal from one day to the next and triggered the number of new businesses expected to start up in a very short time frame,’ he said.

“…The Bureau of Cannabis Control won’t verify business registration before it hands out temporary licenses, according to agency spokesman Alex Traverso. But before businesses can get full annual licenses, Traverso said his staff will check to be sure they’ve filed proper paperwork with the Secretary of State.”

The online business portal just launched, with a short instruction video including an extremely familiar face to the cannabis community-Cheech Marin.

While administrators are working as quickly as they can to get information about the process in view of the public eye, the Secretary of State’s office reminds interested parties that registration with the State won’t begin until January 1st, 2018.

Stay in touch with the latest information for California’s cannabis market at the next International Cannabis Business Conference! Join the ICBC on February 1st & 2nd, 2018 in San Francisco, California! Speakers will include Cannabis Czar Lori Ajax and Alex Traverso of the Bureau of Cannabis Control. Get your tickets today!

Californians Must Continue to Fight for Sensible Cannabis Policies

Written by Amber Iris Langston on December 8, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

Cannabis entrepreneurs and other invested everywhere in California are scrambling to meet the emergency regulations recently released by the state’s Bureau of Cannabis Control in anticipation of the January 1st rollout of adult-use cannabis sales. The effectiveness and ease of implementation of their current guidelines remains to be seen. We always knew there would be a lot of grumbling, but there is a LOT of grumbling. And rightfully so. Many players in the field both big and small are going to have major problems getting into and/or staying in the new adult use legalization market, and concerns around social justice are real. In an eagerness to ensure public safety, regulators are seemingly going overboard to make themselves feel better, if not to make things advance smoothly. High excise taxes and overburdensome, ever-changing rules lead to crippling or death of business and competition.

Debby Goldsberry, manager of Magnolia Wellness in Oakland, and longtime actor in the cannabis movement (including High Times Freedom Fighter of the Year!), recently opined to The Daily Californian just such concerns and calls on the cannabis community to continue its fight:

“I joined the effort to legalize marijuana way back in 1986 and co-founded my first dispensary, Berkeley Patients Group, in 1999 with goals and a vision in mind. The idea was to end cannabis arrests, to create jobs and to keep families together instead of being torn apart by a senseless war on drugs. My hope was that the barrier to enter the movement would be low enough that almost everyone could join, both those in the longstanding underground economy and new people getting involved with innovative ideas. The movement’s goal has been to creating an above-board cannabis industry, through which California could capture reasonable taxes and fair regulatory fees and where small family businesses, which make up the bulk of the industry’s backbone, could thrive.

“Now, it looks as though survival of the fittest, and only experienced, well-funded business people will make it. Mid-sized dispensaries such as Magnolia will likely push through by bootstrapping costs and fees and keeping fingers crossed that enough cultivators and manufacturers will get licenses to meet the demand of the newly regulated market. After all, we have to get our supply from other licensed businesses, and the fear that our access to marijuana will soon be cut off is real.

“… We can’t stop here. It will take years of effort to develop effective regulations and to create workable tax schemes. Thankfully, both the marijuana movement and the industry that was built from it are aligned to make changes. We won’t stop until the right to cultivate, manufacture, sell and use marijuana is an inalienable right, never to be taken away again.”

I agree with Debby. We CAN’T stop here. I’m grateful to her for her leadership on this. Let’s be like Debby and keep crafting a cannabis industry we can all be proud of.

Hear from California entrepreneurs and activists, like Debby Goldsberry, at the next International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco, California on February 1 & 2, 2018. Tickets are on sale now!

ICBC Kauai Was One for the Ages, onto San Francisco and Berlin and…

Written by Anthony Johnson on December 5, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, CBC San Francisco, CBC Vancouver, ICBC Berlin, Politics.

Yesterday’s Kauai Cannabis Classic golf tournament, sponsored by Leafly and Cannafornia, capped off a truly amazing International Cannabis Business Conference, that saw around 500 marijuana industry entrepreneurs converge together to learn, share ideas and network. As the ICBC has traveled around the world, it is safe to say that there has never been a cannabis destination event exactly like ICBC Kauai.

As Brittany Lyte reported for the Honolulu Civil Beat, this ICBC put Hawaii’s marijuana scene front and center and left many wondering why the state hadn’t even decriminalized personal cannabis possession (it still remains an arrestable misdemeanor that can carry up to a month in jail), let alone legalized cannabis commerce. The Aloha State just recently legalized medical dispensaries, but the future of the industry, while moving too slowly to match the views of a majority state’s residents, is certainly bright.

The welcoming message from Tulsi Gabbard was certainly a highlight as the Democratic rising star succinctly detailed the real crime of cannabis prohibition: ”They’ve turned everyday Americans into criminals, torn apart families and wasted huge amounts of taxpayer dollars to arrest, prosecute and incarcerate people for nonviolent marijuana charges.”

Meeting Hawaii State Senator Will Espero was certainly one highlight for me. Senator Espero is a true progressive voice that will hopefully be the state’s next Lt. Governor (and then Governor). Espero, recognizing the benefits of the cannabis industry for his state, expressed great optimism that legalization will come to Hawaii in three to five years: “You can get it in any neighborhood. But now we are thinking about it from the aspect of commercialization, of health care, of tax revenues — and that’s why the bar has been raised on the issue of legalization.”

While every ICBC showcases local rules and regulations and provides insight into the cannabis scene around the world, the real value of the event tends to be the people and the relationships that are formed, as Kauai resident told the Civil Beat, “I think the people are almost more interesting than the conference itself.” It is safe to say that the ICBC in Kauai won’t be forgotten by attendees and exhibitors and it has risen expectations for all of the ICBC staff for future events, as this conference was certainly one for the ages. Now, onto San Francisco, then Berlin, then Vancouver, then… (Stay tuned to ca.internationalcbc.com for more exciting announcements soon!)

Canadian Cannabis Legalization Clears Major Hurdle, ICBC Will Have the Latest

Written by Amber Iris Langston on November 29, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, CBC Vancouver, Politics.

The lower house of the Canadian Parliament passed a bill earlier this week which constitutes a major step forward in the advancement of adult-use Canadian cannabis legalization. Bill C-45 – the Cannabis Act – was introduced in April 2017 by Canadian Minister of Justice and Attorney General Jody Wilson-Raybould under the direction of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who made the issue central to his 2015 election.

Now, after much discussion and a lot of conservative grumbling, the House of Commons has finally reached an agreement on details of the measure. The newest version now heads to the Senate.

CBCNews reports:

“A last-ditch Conservative effort to delay the bill — and send it to the Commons health committee for further study — failed by a vote of 83 to 199 with some Bloc Québecois MPs voting with Tory legislators. Conservative opposition will now fall to their national caucus colleagues in the Red Chamber, where some senators have already signaled they are prepared to give the bill a rough ride. Some Tories have said the government’s timeline for legalization, July 1, 2018, is far too ambitious.

“The Liberal government ultimately accepted three significant amendments to the bill made by the Commons committee tasked with studying the landmark legislation — the government has agreed to ditch its plan to cap marijuana plants maintained in a person’s home to 100 centimetres tall. MPs felt such a requirement would be too difficult to enforce. The government also accepted an amendment that would demand regulations be enacted, one year from Bill C-45’s passage, on edible cannabis products, something ignored by Liberal legislators in this bill.

“The bill will have to secure the support of an increasingly independent Senate where a plurality of members now sit as members of the Independent Senators Group (ISG) and thus owe no loyalty to the government’s agenda or their Liberal colleagues in the House. However, based on a CBC News analysis of voting patterns, many ISG senators have shown to be faithful backers of Liberal legislation.”

While Conservatives continue to push an extended deadline for implementation of legalization for July 2019, legislators are seemingly on track to stick with an initial roll-out by July 2018. Marijuana legalization in Canada will have a major impact around the globe, so we’ll all be watching it unfold.

A major discussion of Canadian law and what it means for investors, entrepreneurs and activists around the globe will be covered by experts at the International Cannabis Business Conference in Kauai, Hawaii, this weekend. Of course, all things Canada will be covered by the ICBC taking place in Vancouver, BC, just before legalization is set to begin! Canada’s next opportunity to host the world’s best B2B cannabis business conference will take place June 24-25, 2018. Mark your calendars and sign up now – Early Bird Tickets are already selling!

ICBC Hawaiian Cannabis Destination Event Starts in One a Week!

Written by ICBC Staff on November 24, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, Cultural, Entertainment, Politics, Science, Social.

If you are in the cannabis industry, or thinking of joining, treat yourself this Black Friday (and save $200!) by getting tickets to the first Hawaiian cannabis destination event, the International Cannabis Business Conference in beautiful Kauai. In one week, the best B2B cannabis conference is happening and you don’t want to miss it, as the ICBC brings its trademark style to the Aloha State, combining cannabis business, politics and culture unlike any other. The festivities begin with a VIP reception sponsored by the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) on December 1st, where the networking will really get started.

The schedule is out, and the list of speakers is impressive. A lot of topics will be covered at this event, so you won’t want to miss anything!

Politics: A number of prominent politicians will be joining to discuss the progress in changing cannabis policy both in Hawaii as well as at the federal level. Hawaiian Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard will welcome attendees, followed by the opening keynote to be delivered by Hawaiian Senator Will Espero. Aaron Smith, NCIA Executive Director, will be interviewing California Congressman Dana Rohrabacher, a longtime advocate for legalization and one of our greatest champions in the House.

Cannabis in Hawaii: Hawaiian Rules and Regulations have their complications like in every state.. Representatives from Steep Hill Hawaii, Aloha Green Apothecary, and De Costa Hempey Meyers LLC will be giving the lay of the islands when it comes to rules for medical cannabis growers. Later in the program, Greg Smith of Green Hawaii Genetic and Dustin Barca of RVCA will discuss The Future of Hemp in Hawaii.

International Cannabis: Experts Robert Laurie, Bibiana Rojas, Native Wayne Jobson, Lukas Behalf and Jamie Shaw will talk Cannabis Cross Borders, primarily focus on upcoming changes in Canada, Colombia, Europe and Jamaica. On Sunday, a powerhouse of presenters including Dean Arbit of Smell the Truth, Mike Lickver of Wheaton Income, Marc Lustig of Cannabis Royalties & Holding Corporation, and Robyn Rabinovich of Terrascend Corporation will go into further depth about The Rise of Canadian LPs and PubCo Funds.

Investment: Whether you are looking for the right funder or looking for the right operations teams, ICBC will be covering the gamut of cannabis investment. Consultant Mary Patton, Steve Koskie, and co-founder of the venture capital firm Casa Verde Capital Evan Eneman will be headlining our Private Equity, VCs and Angels panel; Investing in California is on everyone’s mind – famed producer and DJ for Cypress Hill, DJ Muggs and Director of Operations for Bhang Jamie Pearson and Paul King of Cannafornia and Duard Ventures give insight into California’s process and what it takes to be successful there; And what would be success without Building Strategic Partnerships? Brad Lane of Cannabis Planet Productions, Brian Staffa of BSC Group, Robin Swinney of Mary’s Medicinals, and NCIA’s Rachel Kurtz let you know the nuances of navigating cannabis relationships.

Media, Marketing and Entertainment: Feel like Getting Doug with High? Come meet internationally recognized comedian and cannabis activist Doug Benson and hear his personal interview by journalist to the stars Steve Bloom of Celebstoner. Building a Cannabis Brand is essential for any ganjapreneurs competing in the market space, and no one does it better than Drake Sutton-Shearer of PrØhibited Media, who will be giving tips and advice for aspiring businesses; Finally, to cap off the conference’s agenda, the Guru of Ganja, Ed Rosenthal, will be in town to receive the ICBC Lifetime Achievement Award for Cannabis. (Additionally, attendees get an exclusive concert performance by Grammy award-winners Morgan Heritage.)

Legalease: Lawsuits and Taxes are as inevitable as death, some might say. David Gibb of Legally Mine has years of experience to impart on how to avoid lawsuits and minimize tax expenditures. Intellectual Property Protection is certainly an important tool for avoiding those lawsuits and keeping you brand safe. In-House Counsel for Starbucks Russ Jacobs, Kohel Haver of Swider/Haver Law, Dave Branfman of Branfman Law have advice and answers, with Podcast host Seth Adler moderating.

Growing: Experts in Clean Cultivation and Cannabis Genetics will discussing the latest in technologies and techniques for top-notch cannabis production that will assure you are passing quality control tests, and your customers are getting a safe product. Kevin Jodrey of Wonderland Nursery, Michael Robbie of CONVIRON, and John Perricone of Double Clef Management will be taking questions and giving answers, with moderator Darryl Hudson.

December 1-3, 2017, is sure to be a weekend of a lifetime in Kauai, Hawaii with the International Cannabis Business Conference! The clock is ticking to get your tickets for this amazing event. You know you won’t regret it, so what are you waiting for? Hotel and ticket prices are about to go up again!

Cannafornia’s Paul King on Cannabis Cultivation, DJ Muggs & More

Written by Anthony Johnson on November 22, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, CBC San Francisco.

Paul King decided to “go big or go home,” when he started his cannabis cultivation business in California, and he indeed “went big” with 150k sq ft of greenhouse cultivation in the Golden State. It should be expected that Paul would indeed go big in the cannabis space after being named one of the top 25 entrepreneurs under 25 by BusinessWeek back in 2009.

I was glad that Paul spared some time to chat ahead of his appearance on the “Investing in California Cultivation” panel at the upcoming International Cannabis Business Conference in Kauai, Hawaii, starting December 1st. With California starting adult-use cannabis commerce on January 1st and just releasing state regulations, the panel couldn’t be timelier.

Anthony Johnson: What brought you to the cannabis industry and when?

Paul King: I️ was always a fan and consumer and once I️ learned about California, that I️ could grow legally, I️ was on a mission.

I evaluated the market and saw that cultivation was the core of the industry and we wanted to go big to be sustainable and make the economies of scale work well into the future stages.

With California moving towards statewide regulations, as well as local rules, governing cannabis commerce, how are you feeling about the upcoming market?

California is such a huge market, with incredible potential. It is exciting to have an opportunity to succeed in the world’s 6th largest economy. Overall, I feel good with California rolling out regulations. We have a team to keep us compliant, from all of the paperwork to testing. I look forward to competing with the Canadians. They’re crushing us now, but I feel like it’s the year 2000 and we’re Google working out of the garage but we’re coming for the goliath, Yahoo !

What areas of California are your cannabis products?

Our headquarters is in Sonoma, under the brand Cannafornia, and we are concentrating on greenhouse grows and are expanding the brand into San Francisco and the surrounding areas.

In addition to cultivating high grade cannabis, you also consult others in the business, how did that come about?

Consulting kind of started by accident. I just kept meeting people that wanted assistance, and through word of mouth, people started approaching me about cultivation and other licences, in California and then in other states as well. We enjoy guiding people the right way and helping them succeed. It pisses me off to see people get the wrong information from lawyers and get screwed over.

How did you start working with DJ Muggs of Cypress Hill?

Muggs has a property in Sonoma County where he was cultivating, but his initial team wasn’t working out. His cousin Jamie, who handles his business affairs, reached out to us. Today, we help Muggs cultivate, including a great Durban Poison strain that has been highlighted by quite a few dispensaries.

What strains do you cultivate and why?

We grow what the market needs. We like OGs, gelatos, sours and we are always experimenting with some breeding on the side. We’re paying attention to the research being done in Israel on the medical side as well, and will have our own manufacturing and research facilities soon.

Once the United States government ends the folly that is cannabis prohibition, exporting will be a tremendous opportunity for West Coast cultivators, do you see that occurring sooner than later?

It’ll take time, but we hope to have a fighting chance against the big Canadian players soon, as they currently have a huge unfair advantage. We are applying for licenses in other states while they’re buying them at crazy valuations, but hopefully the United States will soon even the playing field. President Trump can’t like the fact that we’re losing to the Canadians on our own turf! We’ll keep pushing on our end and be ready when any new avenues open.

Cannabis flower will always be sought after, but how do you see other products proceeding in the market?

Right now it’s all about scale for growers. Next, it’ll be all about brands. The same way that regular Tobacco farmers sell their tobacco for pennies on the dollar while Marlboro gets a major premium. Cannabis will be similar a few years from now.

Thanks a lot for your time Paul. Look forward to seeing you at the ICBC in Kauai.

Thank you, looking forward to it.

Don’t miss Paul King and a whole host of movers and shakers in the cannabis industry at the International Cannabis Business Conference in beautiful Kauai, Hawaii, at the amazing Grand Hyatt Resort. Paul will cover what he has learned from hands on experience, busting some myths, and providing real insight into the day-to-day operations of a cultivation business. Plus, he’ll be joined onstage by the legendary DJ Muggs of Cypress Hill fame! Act fast before ticket prices increase!

Disrupting the Industry: Merry Jane Covers ICBC Organizers

Written by Anthony Johnson on November 21, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, CBC San Francisco, Cultural, Politics, Social.

Anyone that has attended marijuana conferences, along with the International Cannabis Business Conference knows that the ICBC is different. The ICBC combines business information, political insight, activism tips and cannabis culture together to create a unique experience for attendees. The trademark blend of all sectors of the cannabis industry and lifestyle is a big reason why many people continue to attend various ICBC events around the country and globe. Word of mouth is spreading around the world, and demand for the ICBC is so high, that more and more conferences are already planned for 2018 and beyond.

Whether it is bringing into the fold the future governor of California (and maybe president), Gavin Newsom, to Congressional Cannabis Caucus Founders Earl Blumenauer and Dana Rohrabacher to Hawaii representative (and maybe our future president) Tulsi Gabbard, along with movers and shakers from the industry and activist scene, the ICBC is continually seeking out crucial voices that can benefit attendees and keep our movement’s positive momentum. And whether it is the fact that cannabis comic Ngaio Bealum is often the MC or a cultural icon like Henry Rollins is keynoting to the fact that legendary comedians such as Tommy Chong or Doug Benson are gracing the stage, the ICBC keeps attendees engaged and entertained as well.

Merry Jane just featured the two lead organizers of the ICBC, Alex Rogers and Dean Arbit, for an illuminating interview that discusses the upcoming Kauai “cannabis destination” event, the mission of their business venture, the state of the cannabis industry, and what the future holds for the conference and the overall cannabis community. Here’s a snippet:

With the international conferences, you’ve set up shop in Berlin, San Francisco, Vancouver and now Hawaii…not exactly San Bernardino, California. Before we get into Hawaii specifically, what is so important about bringing the cannabis industry to world renowned destinations?

Rogers: I consider myself an international citizen. I’ve lived in many different countries and I speak many different languages, and to go to markets that are nascent and burgeoning has been incredible. We did get a little lucky in Germany with medical marijuana legalization turning right before our event, but by thinking globally we were the first to market in Europe as a B2B conference. My whole goal is to spread cannabis internationally.

Dean Arbit: On the business side of it, it made a ton of sense because we had all of these cannabis trailblazers in North America, and we were able to bring them to new consumer markets in Europe. It makes all the sense in the world.

Full disclosure: I work with Alex and Dean on the ICBC. But I wouldn’t just work with any marijuana business conference or venture. As a cannabis legalization activist my entire adult life, I can only work with businesses that keep in mind the foundations of our movement-keeping the cannabis community out of prison and taking care of patients in need. Alex and Dean, and everyone involved with the ICBC, understands the importance of staying true to our activist roots, and that shows and permeates through every event.

The International Cannabis Business Conference can help you make money, no doubt about it. The information gleamed, political knowledge and the amazing networking opportunities can take your business to the next level. But making money isn’t the only thing that the ICBC is about. Most importantly, the ICBC is about spreading leveling the playing field for everyone and ending prohibition state by state, nation by nation, until the cannabis community is truly free.

If you can make an upcoming event, you will leave more knowledgeable, energized and with more connections, ready to tackle any regulation and repeal any prohibitionist law. Join us in Kauai on December 1st, San Francisco on February 1st, or any of our upcoming events and you’ll understand the appeal of the International Cannabis Business Conference and how it is truly a one-of-a-kind, must attend cannabis event.

California Announces Cannabis Rules

Written by Amber Iris Langston on November 20, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

California’s cannabis legalization law is set to go into effect beginning January 1, 2018. Suffice to say, a lot of people are excited.

It’s been just over a year since voters in the Golden State approved Proposition 64. And while that may seem like a long time to get regulations on paper, rule-makers feel differently. Nevertheless, January 1st IS the deadline, and the deadline must be met.

Yesterday, the State released a flurry of emergency regulations which are meant to provide a path for growers, distributors and sellers to apply for temporary licenses in the nation’s largest economy. California’s behemoth cannabis market is expected top out at around $7 billion.

Among the more worrisome proposals appears to be limits on some grow operations, but not others.

From the LA Times:

“At one time, 4 acres was under consideration, but preliminary information from the state earlier this week indicated a maximum 1-acre cap would be set on most cultivators.

“But the regulations issued Thursday did not include that language, instead placing limits on only certain medium-sized growers’ licenses. Beyond those, ‘there is no limitation for the other categories of licenses,’ Steve Lyle of the state Department of Food and Agriculture said in an email.

“Hezekiah Allen, Executive Director of the California Growers Association, an industry group, said the rules appeared to allow large businesses to obtain ‘as many licenses as they could afford,’ opening the way for vast cannabis grows that could threaten the viability of small farms, long the backbone of the state industry.”

California regulators definitely have their work cut out for them. The Bureau of Cannabis Control, which is responsible for creating the rules, will be holding stakeholder meetings across the state over the coming weeks. I’m guessing they will hear some extremely loud feedback.

The International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC) keeps you informed of the most up-to-date in emerging cannabis regulations. Join us at our next conference in Kauai, Hawaii, on December 1-3, 2017 and get a leg up on your competition and the following ICBC in San Francisco, California, on February 1-2, 2018. Get your tickets now!

Over Half of Hawaii’s Unregulated Cannabis Tainted

Written by Amber Iris Langston on November 8, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, Medical, Science.

In wake of the rollout for Hawaii’s revised medical cannabis program, lab testing facilities in the state have been working hard to show the world that Hawaii has the best (or at least strictest) medical cannabis regulations in the country. In order to prove that point, the new laboratories have been undergoing rigorous oversight from the State. However, since most of Hawaii’s dispensaries are still working out the kinks before becoming operational, there has been a dearth of legal product for the labs to sample. This has provided a roadblock for the labs needing to showcase the efficacy and sufficiency of their equipment to run accurate tests on cannabis, in order to meet certification requirements of the state health department.

Their solution? They have been testing cannabis product from the unregulated, illicit market, and the results sounds a bit scary. Steep Hill Hawaii, the first cannabis lab testing facility on the islands, has reported over 50% of the illicit market product tested contained mold, pesticides, yeasts and/or other contaminants.

A representative of the facility discussed the issue with Hawaii News Now:

“‘I personally was shocked to find out how much stuff was in black market cannabis that you would never expect. E. coli, which comes from fecal matter. Salmonella, which comes from raw egg and chicken. We found that on product we tested,’ said Michael Covington, of Steep Hill Hawaii.

“‘…the dispensaries weren’t open so we had to go to the black market to try to find cannabis that was clean. In doing that, a lot of times we ran across contamination in people’s samples,’ Covington said.”

“Even if a homegrower does everything right, Covington says there are still many factors that can cause contamination, like Hawaii’s humid weather.”

As we continue to bring cannabis out of the shadows and into the light, we are bound to see some things that we couldn’t see before when our policies were in the dark. Even though the transition to regulatory oversight is a challenge to many growers, it is clear that public health and safety rely on accurate information and shared knowledge.

I guess in that sense….the more you know, the more you grow?

If YOU want to know more about Hawaii’s emerging cannabis program, there is no better place than the International Cannabis Business Conference. ICBC’s Financial Investor Summit is coming to Kauai, Hawaii on December 1-3, 2017, and will feature global experts on all aspects of the cannabis industry, including Steep Hill Hawaii’s Michael Covington, along with internationally-recognized entertainers including comedian Doug Benson and grammy award winners Morgan Heritage. Get your Early Bird tickets today before prices go up on Friday!

Ticket Prices Increase at Midnight for Oregon Marijuana Business Conference

Written by ICBC Staff on November 3, 2017. Posted in Business, Entertainment, Medical, OMBC.

The marijuana business in Oregon is going through rapid changes, including a December 1st deadline where all growers must declare whether they are producing products for the medical or recreational markets.

For growers wanting to be in compliance with ever-changing rules, Oregon Marijuana Business Conference (OMBC) is your best resource for information. OMBC is the longest running cannabis B2B networking event in the state, with top notch exhibitors and select speakers specializing in all areas of cannabis business. The next event will be held Nov. 19 at Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites in the heart of Oregon’s cannabis country. Industry experts, cannabis law reform activists, and marijuana business attorneys will be on hand to present the latest information and answer your burning questions.

These days, no one can deny that the Oregon cannabis industry is booming, generating more than $85 million in tax revenue to the state and creating thousands of jobs. But the competition is fierce, forcing entrepreneurs and business owners to be creative with their branding strategies while producing top-notch products and services. Not only will the OMBC present you with important tools of the trade, but it will also provide you with excellent networking opportunities that can help you take your cannabis business to the next level.

While the OMBC is designed to help you survive and thrive in the legal cannabis market, advocating for social justice and sensible policies is always a top priority. Keeping people out of prison and providing safe access to patients remain of paramount importance to our community. State Senator Floyd Prozanski, a major champion of sensible cannabis and hemp regulations, will be on hand to present the latest legislative information and respond to your policy questions. This will be an important opportunity for advocates to continue the process of protecting and improving Oregon’s cannabis laws.

Early Bird Tickets end tonight at midnight – which means you have only a few hours left to save $100 on conference registration! Tickets will include an After Party at Brickroom with Hip Hop artists Hieroglyphics/Souls of Mischief, and a keynote speech by the iconic Henry Rollins. You know you want to be there, so get your tickets now!

Big Alcohol Invests in Cannabis Company Canopy Growth

Written by Amber Iris Langston on October 30, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, CBC Vancouver.

It’s official.

Big business is moving in on the legalization market. Cannabis conspiracy theorists across the nation are congratulating themselves for having gotten something right, and maybe prohibitionist Kevin Sabet is feeling justified (even though he’s clearly on the wrong side of history).

Whether it’s a good or bad thing, the new move is a reflection of capitalist inevitability. Yes, legalization is going to bring in outside players with a lot of money. And if we claim we want to regulate cannabis like alcohol, then we have to expect the alcohol industry to be involved.

In the United States, that’s still impossible. Federal prohibition ties the hands of alcohol industry explicitly from being associated with any illegal substance, which is why there is such a struggle in the entertainment industry when it comes to cannabis-based events: alcohol is not allowed.

But that’s not the story in Canada. Our neighbors to the north have moved forward with a state-regulated system for adult production and sales, leaving large and international investment opportunities open.

This weekend, Constellation Brands, a major alcohol distributor based in the United States which includes the widely ubiquitous Corona beer, has just purchased 9.9% of the Canopy Growth Corporation, with an option to purchase up to 20% total, to the tune of $245 million Canadian dollars ($191 million US).

Constellation Brands President and CEO, Rob Sands, indicated the group is hedging their bets on a legal US market in the not-too-distant future, and stated they would not be selling any cannabis products in the US until federal prohibition was lifted.

From CNBC:

“Constellation Brands is a listed on the S&P 500 and posted record net sales of $7.3 billion for its fiscal 2017 results.

“Canopy Growth is the world’s largest publicly traded cannabis company, with a market valuation of 2.2 billion Canadian dollars. It is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

“Constellation said the transaction is expected to close during the Company’s third quarter of fiscal 2018.”

As of this morning, Reuters reported a surge of more than 16 percent for Canopy Growth Corp stocks on the Toronto Stock Exchange’s S&P/TSX. With the momentum clearly behind marijuana legalization, it is safe to say that this won’t be the last big mainstream business that invests in the cannabis industry.

If you want to compete in the cannabis market, you have to stay informed! The International Cannabis Business Conference has you covered. Join us December 1-3 in Kauai, Hawaii, in February in San Francisco, in April in Berlin, and next June in Vancouver, Canada! If you are in the Oregon cannabis industry, or thinking of joining, then you should definitely attend the Oregon Marijuana Business Conference in Ashland on November 18-19.

Hawaii Officials Give Approval to Its Second Cannabis Lab

Written by ICBC Staff on October 19, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, Science.

Pharmlab Hawaii, LLC, passed final inspections this week from the Hawaii Deportment of Health (DOH), giving the private laboratory testing facility provisional certification to being medical cannabis testing on the island of Maui.

From the state’s local ABC affiliate KITV:

“Pharmlab Hawaii is the second laboratory to receive DOH approval for medical cannabis testing. The first laboratory, Steep Hill Hawaii, received its provisional certificate in July. DOH anticipates that a third company, Oahu-based Aeos Labs, which is operated by Clinical Labs of Hawaii, could be ready for an on-site inspection by January 2018.

“…’With a certified laboratory now on Maui, dispensaries will no longer have to transport cannabis samples to Oahu for testing, which could potentially reduce costs and allow for faster approval time,’ says Wanda Chang, DOH environmental health analytic services branch chief. ‘Dispensaries also now have a choice of laboratories for testing cannabis plant material.'”

“To receive certification, a laboratory must submit validation studies to demonstrate it is capable of conducting testing with consistent and accurate results for the following areas: cannabinoid profile, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); compounds that are considered active ingredients; heavy metals such as arsenic, pesticides, solvents, moisture content, microbial contaminants, intestinal bacteria and pathogens; dangerous molds that can cause infection and disease; and toxins produced by molds. In addition, a laboratory must meet the accreditation standards of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).”

Effectively regulating cannabis commerce has proven to be a challenging process for most states, and Hawaii has been no different. Fortunately for the industry, Hawaiian officials have been rather proactive at the obstacles facing marijuana businesses, even stepping in to establish an alternative banking service as federal law continues to unnecessarily hinder state-regulated cannabis entrepreneurs. Despite the regulatory hurdles, the growing pains are ultimately worth it for the state. With the island paradise soon to allow cannabis dispensaries the ability to provide medicine to all medical patients traveling to the Aloha State, the future is bright for the state’s cannabis community.

Want to test out Hawaii’s medical cannabis for yourself? There will be no other better event to learn about what is happening for cannabis in Hawaii and around the globe, than at the International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC) on the beautiful island of Kauai, Hawaii, this December 1-3, 2017. Get your early bird tickets today before prices go up!

Want to take part of the ICBC but can’t make it to Hawaii? Check out other events coming up in San Francisco, Berlin and Vancouver!

Will the Canadian Cannabis Market Be Bigger Than Previously Thought?

Written by ICBC Staff on October 17, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai, CBC Vancouver.

New information last week from GMP Securities, an independent investment dealer based in Toronto, is leading analysts in Canada to suggest that the adult-use legalization market in the Great White North will be even greater than previously suggested. The new estimations also indicate that production will finally outpace consumption around 2020, leading to lower prices for the consumer.

Martin Landry, a research analyst from GMP Securities, gave his thoughts on the emerging market in a report to his clients, as reported by CanTechLetter.com:

“‘We are revising upward our market size estimate for the Canadian recreational cannabis market,’ the analyst says. ‘This revision stems from the probable addition of cannabis edibles and concentrates to the list of products legally available on July 1, 2018 and also from recent data emanating from the US which suggests our previous forecasts were too conservative. ‘We are also changing our assumption on the timing of implementation of legalization to July 1, 2018 vs our previous estimate of January 1, 2019.’

“Landry says he expects edibles could comprise a total of forty per cent of all cannabis cosumed in Canada, noting that this is the mix in Colorado since 2016. He says the HESA amendment to Bill C-45 that ensures the availability of edible and concentrated forms of cannabis was the other development that changed his estimate on edibles from 30 per cent of the total market to 40.

“Landry believes recreational market demand will reach 500 tons in 2021, 600 tons the following year and 700 tons in 2023. But the analyst believes a potential oversupply condition could emerge after 2020, due to several large industry capacity expansions and greater production efficiencies from LPS. Because of this, the analyst has dropped his estimate for the price of dried cannabis from $5.00 per gram to $4.00.”

I expect revisions for market estimates will continuously be revised between now and 2020, but I’m looking forward to that market drop. In the meantime, there’s still a lot of room for growth in the production and sales sectors in Canada, so be sure to pay attention!

Stay tuned in to the International Cannabis Business Conference for all your current and future cannabis industry questions! Our next event is on the beautiful island of Kauai, Hawaii on December 1-3. Then we’ll be hitting San Francisco in February, Berlin in April, and finally back round to Vancouver, Canada on June 24-25, 2018. Get your tickets today, and we will plan to see you there!

Photo credit: abdallahh/Flickr (CC BY 2.0) | Remix by Jason Reed

Oregon Cannabis Legalization Disburses $85 for State Services

Written by Amber Iris Langston on October 13, 2017. Posted in Business.

Schools, police, public health and safety officials and local government administrators in Oregon are all smiling big this week.

Noelle Crombie of The Oregonian reported that the Oregon Department of Revenue will be disbursing a weighty sum for a number of important state programs this week – $85 million – from taxes generated by the legal recreational cannabis industry. The $85 million represents the first payout these services have seen since implementation of legal, adult-use sales, a number that is only going to flourish in the coming years.

And all we had to do was stop putting people in jail for a plant!

Well, that and create a regulatory infrastructure for a previously illegal, informal market – not to understate the ugly and tedious process of rule-making. But mostly the policy of prohibition had to end (and has to end) in order for states to enjoy the public bounty that cannabis provides. After living in a legal cannabis state, many of us wonder why it is taking the rest of the country so long to figure this out.

From The Oregonian:

“Oregon collected a total of $108.6 million in state and local taxes between Jan. 4, 2016, and Aug. 31, 2017. The state put $9.56 million toward the Oregon Liquor Control Commission’s “start-up costs” for regulating the industry and toward the Department of Revenue’s work to collect the taxes.

“The rest was divvied up according to a formula spelled out by law: The state school fund gets 40 percent, or $34 million; mental health, alcoholism and drug services get 20 percent, or $17 million; Oregon State Police get 15 percent, or $12.75 million, and the Oregon Health Authority gets 5 percent, which comes to $4.25 million.

“…Ninety-five Oregon local governments impose a local sales tax of up to 3 percent; the Department of Revenue collects those taxes on behalf of 71 local communities, including Portland.”

I am hopeful that other states, such as my own home of Missouri, will hear the message from states like Oregon which are seeing the real financial impact of changing cannabis laws. I’m watching closely as my colleagues from Show-Me Cannabis and New Approach Missouri fight one of the country’s last ballot initiative battles for medical cannabis.

To be clear, I don’t want to confuse medical and recreational use. I just think many of the more conservative states are slower to admit to themselves they do, in fact, support legalization. It may take a hot minute for those legislators to hear the message that total repeal of prohibition is the answer, but fortunately (at least in this case), money talks. $85 million talks a lot.

To stay up-to-date on all things Oregon cannabis, be sure to attend the Oregon Marijuana Business Conference on November 18-19th in Ashland. To learn from and network with cannabis industry entrepreneurs, political advocates and investors from around the United States and the globe, you should check out the International Cannabis Business Conference in Kauai, Hawaii, December 1st thru the 3rd or the ICBC in San Francisco February 1-2, 2018.

Social Media Companies Love and Hate the Cannabis Community

Written by Amber Iris Langston on October 11, 2017. Posted in Business, Cultural.

To say that cannabis entrepreneurs face unique changes in the marketplace could be an understatement. (It definitely is an understatement.) But the truth is, until we fix federal prohibition cannabis businesses are going to subject to arbitrary decisions from major companies in the “legal” marketplace.

Btw, “legal” is not a meaningful term in this context.

If the name of your organization has letters that fit together like so (“c-a-n-n-a-b-i-s” or “m-a-r-i-j-u-a-n-a”) you might be a non-specific threat to the gentle sensibilities of this great nation, not to mention the minds and hearts of our innocent children.

For years, activists have battled the moral ethical codes of various social media platforms to advertise about political activities that support legalization including Facebook, Google, and Twitter. Sometimes our ads will go for weeks unnoticed. Sometimes they get shut down immediately. While there may have been some base of reasoning behind this censorship five or ten years ago, with nearly 90% of the country in support of medical cannabis and a majority of states with some kind of legal cannabis, this really makes no sense. It’s a very unfriendly variable for social change agents in the middle of a campaign, or for entrepreneurs in the middle of a business launch.

Apparently, last week my good friends at MJToday Daily had a run-in with the mail service provider Mailchimp, when their content was flagged and shut down. Shea Gunther, a co-founder of my own advocacy alma mater, Students for Sensible Drug Policy, heads up that project, and pointed to the ridiculous nature of Mailchimp’s action in an interview last week with Forbes:

“As the marijuana industry continues to grow, the federal-state conflict in cannabis laws is causing marketing problems for companies within the industry. Marijuana businesses routinely have their Facebook ads rejected and their Instagram accounts shut down ― ostensibly for violating the services’ policies against promoting illicit drugs.

“But the marketing headaches affect even businesses that don’t deal directly with the drug. ‘We don’t do illegal stuff,’ said Gunther, whose newsletter features marijuana-related headlines from around the web. ‘It sounds like their system … is not tuned to handle marijuana content. Everything we do is in compliance.’

“Perhaps one of the most aggravating aspects of the industry’s social media challenges is the arbitrary nature of how such policies are enforced. It can be particularly frustrating for companies that spend resources on building up their social media followers, only to have their accounts shut down. Meanwhile, they watch their competitors continue to use the platforms with no consequences.”

Unfortunately, this happens over and over in the cannabis space will little consistency across companies, and I am afraid that it will continue to happen until we can see some significant national-level policy change.

How do we make national-level policy change happen? I am so glad you asked! The answer is GET INVOLVED. If you are a business, become a member of the National Cannabis Industry Association which is working in Washington, DC to repeal federal prohibition. If you are a student or have young people in your life, support Students for Sensible Drug Policy.

And of course, if you want to be informed of the latest political, technological, and other challenges for businesses in the cannabis industry, go to the International Cannabis Business Conference! Our next stop is paradise on December 1-3 in Kauai, Hawaii, followed by San Francisco in February, Berlin in April and Vancouver, BC, set for next June. Tickets are on sale now!

Photo Credit: image from HTSABO

New York Mayoral Candidate Supports Economic Justice and Legalization

Written by Anthony Johnson on October 10, 2017. Posted in Business.

I didn’t know what to expect when interviewing New York City mayoral candidate Mike Tolkin. Some third-party candidates can be very eccentric and New York has had it’s fair share; it is home to the Rent is Too Damn High Party after all. After talking to Mr. Tolkin, I can attest that this cannabis legalization supporter, who is currently living as a homeless person to publicize income inequality, is an extremely smart and thoughtful candidate that is running for office for the right reasons.

Tolkin has received quite a bit of media attention by spending a week homeless in front of New York City Hall. He has relied upon the kindness of others and he has been pleasantly surprised by the support that he has received from well-wishers passing by. Tolkin will end his homeless occupation on Tuesday, October 10th.

Below is the conversation I had with the the third-party NYC mayoral candidate.

Anthony Johnson: Why go homeless?

Mike Tolkin: Homelessness is one of our biggest challenges. The fact that New York City has 60,000 homeless people speaks to a larger epidemic of economic injustice. People are being displaced with rising rent costs. Looking at the economy, 5 to 10 years from now, our economy will drastically change. Automation and e-commerce are hurting small businesses. We need to be investing and preparing our kids for the economy of the future. We need to put in place policies like a universal income. I went homeless before, without any media attention, to learn about what people are going through and to learn about solutions.

I want people to see the human side of homelessness. Many times, people look the other away, because it is too painful to see people living on the streets. There will be more political action if people have sympathy. We need, for starters, more rehabilitation centers and mental health services.

Do you see a relation between the stigma of drug use, the lack of drug treatment services, and the homeless population?

100%. There are a variety of reasons why people end up on the streets. People exhaust every single option to avoid becoming homeless, calling up every friend and family member. Substance abuse problems, mental health issues, PTSD, LGBT runaways, are just some of the reasons people become homeless. My proposal, NYC Life, would provide safe housing, job training and mental health and substance abuse treatment. Today’s shelters are unsafe, a big reason why people choose to be on the streets instead of in shelters.

What about marijuana legalization?

I am 100% in support of marijuana legalization. I was nervous to be public about this at first, but I decided to be authentic. I don’t drink, but I have vaped cannabis and it has helped improve my life. People have access to marijuana already, so we can make money off of the market, or we can waste money on arrests, imprisonment and ruining lives.

It has turned into a plus for my campaign. Other primary candidates then jumped on board after I was outspoken on the issue.

Not only does marijuana provide health benefits, but it also can help promote job opportunities. There are a multitude of jobs that can be created, that can benefit people, not to mention the many innovations that can benefit society and create jobs as well.

We have too many politicians that don’t have the strength of their convictions. They don’t even have the strength of being on the right side of history, even though they see where history is going. Many personally support legalization and can see that marijuana is likely to be legal in 5 to 10 years, and yet they are still afraid. Don’t you want to be on the right side of history?

Mayor de Blasio has touted that marijuana possession arrests have decreased in NYC, but they actually increased in 2016 from 2015. Is there a disconnect between de Blasio’s rhetoric and the reality on the ground?

The disconnect between Mayor de Blasio’s rhetoric and the facts on the ground are across the board. There have been a number of reports that he is a user himself. How can you use it yourself and not support legalization?

What should people do to learn more about your campaign?

Go to TolkinForMayor.com to learn more and check out our videos, including one we’ve made about the need for marijuana reform.

Be sure to join other cannabis legalization activists and entrepreneurs at the International Cannabis Business Conference in beautiful Kauai, Hawaii, December 1st thru the 3rd. After Kauai, the ICBC travels to San Francisco, February 1st-2nd, just one month after California is scheduled to legalize cannabis commerce for all adults.

This blog was originally published by Marijuana Politics and has been posted here with special permission.

Landmark Cannabis Intellectual Property Case Settled

Written by Amber Iris Langston on October 6, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Kauai.

Beginning in December, getting high on Gorilla Glue is going to be a really terrible idea.

This week, The Gorilla Glue Co. and GG Strains LLC reached a settlement for a major lawsuit claiming trademark infringement against a Nevada-based cannabis company. The long-established global adhesives manufacturing company, The Gorilla Glue Co., initiated the lawsuit in March, arguing brand confusion between the adhesive company and the purveyors of cannabis.

From The Cannabist:

“By licensing and marketing products under the ‘confusingly similar’ names of Gorilla Glue #4, Gorilla Glue #1 and Gorilla Glue, #5, GG Strains is trading on — and profiting from — the reputation and goodwill the Gorilla Glue Co. built during its 23 years of business, the firm alleged in the March 24 complaint.

“Gorilla Glue Co.’s initial claims for relief included having GG Strains stop using the Gorilla Glue names, logos and imagery; deliver up for destruction any advertisements, signs, clothing or other materials containing the alleged infringing marks; disable the gorillaglue4.com website and transfer the domain to Gorilla Glue Co.; withdraw and cancel any applications or trademarks containing the words “Gorilla Glue”; and pay any and all profits arising from the alleged unlawful acts.

“GG Strains officials denied the infringement claims, arguing that the two brands could coexist — akin to the Deltas (faucets and airlines) and Doves (soaps and chocolates) of the world. GG Strains executives and founders also said they started a rebranding effort to change the ‘Gorilla Glue’ numbered strains to ‘GG4,’ ‘GG1,’ and ‘GG5.'”

If GG Strains truly is infringing on the intellectual property of The Gorilla Glue Company, the courts won’t be deciding. Though no money was exchanged in the settlement, GG Strains acknowledged lawyers’ fees and court costs have already forced about $250,000 out of their coffers.

I think it’s safe to say that we can expect more of these lawsuits mucking up entrepreneurship as the cannabis industry matures into the larger business space. The continuing illegal status of cannabis at the federal level puts it in a strange playing field when it comes to patent and copyright laws. As growth in the market accelerates, we can expect to see more of these lawsuits. No court handed down any decision on this particular dispute, but I’ll be keeping an eye open for future legal precedent.

Want to learn more about IP law in the cannabis industry? Join the International Cannabis Business Conference for the Finance Investor Forum this December 1-3, 2017 in Kauai, Hawaii, where experts will be discussing intellectual property rights and cannabis brands, among many other timely topics of importance for the canna-business professional. Get your tickets today!

California Cannabis Advisory Committee Announced

Written by Amber Iris Langston on October 5, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco, Politics.

The California Department of Consumer Affairs announced appointments to a new committee created under the Bureau of Cannabis Control. The committee will assist in the development of rules and regulations for the 2018 roll-out of a legal adult-use cannabis market in the Golden State, emphasizing public health and safety, and reduction of illegal commerce.

“The department received hundreds of qualified applications for the committee and reviewed all of them during the selection process,” said Department of Consumer Affairs Director Dean R. Grafilo. “These individuals represent the diverse backgrounds of California and the cannabis industry and have the necessary experience to make the committee successful.”

It’s a long and robust list of advisors, and it appears to cover a broad base. I personally recognize a few names that I know Californians will feel good about.

Tamar Todd of the Drug Policy Alliance has been integral in many state-based initiative changes, including California, Oregon and Missouri, the three states I have done the bulk of my own activism for.

Alice Huffman has been a champion for the African-American community for years. Alice was running the California chapter of the NAACP when I worked on Prop 19 in 2010. She secured the first major minority group endorsement for cannabis legalization that year.

Kristin Nevedal is another force to be reckoned with; among her achievements, Kristin led the effort to create the Patient-Focused Certification program in conjunction with Americans for Safe Access – an important cannabis patient advocacy organization I have also been lucky to work for. PFC standards are currently being employed by many state and international governments developing legal cannabis schemes.

While I see many names and titles on the list which look impressive, I cannot speak to their achievements. Suffice to say, there are at least three rockstars there who I trust to keep the industry real, so I am feeling good about this committee.

From the California Cannabis Portal press release:

“…Committee members serve at the pleasure of the Director of the Department of Consumer Affairs. Members will not be paid, but will be reimbursed for any necessary travel for approved advisory committee meetings.

“BCC will work with the new members to set a date for the first meeting of the advisory committee. Additional information and meeting agendas will soon be posted at www.bcc.ca.gov, and on the Cannabis Web Portal, www.cannabis.ca.gov.”

There will be much work ahead for this California advisory committee and many other stakeholders. While there will be ups and downs and a multitude of regulatory changes, it is clear that the California cannabis industry will be the world’s biggest and the future is bright for the Golden State.

Stay informed of the latest in California regulations at the International Cannabis Business Conference on February 1 & 2, 2018 in San Francisco, California! If you want to get a leg up on the competition, and visit beautiful Hawaii in December, the ICBC Kauai event is being held December 1st thru the 3rd.

Regulatory Hurdles Hurting Canadian Cannabis Oil Market

Written by Amber Iris Langston on October 3, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Vancouver.

Onerous regulations appear to be negatively impacting the cannabis business growth in Canada.

Specifically, current organizational structures may be too strict to allow production to meet demand for cannabis oils and extracts. While the number of applications for cannabis licensing continues to climb, many entrepreneurs are skipping the step of extraction, presumably in a move to limit potential liabilities by keeping initial operations to the basics of production and distribution.

Tyler Nvquvest of Business Vancouver cited a recent Health Canada report which shows a growth in the cannabis oil sector of more than 871% between April 2016 and March 2017, and pointed out the overall lack of cannabis oil production licenses – only 18 of the 51 licenses granted by Canadian authorities include a plan to produce and sell oil:

“The regulatory system is not structured to solely license companies exclusively focused on oil extraction, said Rosy Mondin, executive director at the Cannabis Trade Alliance of Canada. Oil extraction carries extra restrictions and regulations governing dosage and application.

“‘The way the system is set up is that it is a complete seed-to-sale license,’ said Mondin. ‘If you want to process oils, you are forced to cultivate [marijuana].’

“…’When you look at consumption trends in the U.S. and use [them] as predicators to Canada, the prediction is that consumption of extracted oil and oil-based products is going to increase 198,000% over the next five years,’ Mondin said.”

While Canada is currently losing out on the cannabis oil market due to regulatory hurdles, that will likely change in the near future. Over regulation and supply chain bottlenecks have temporarily plagued other marijuana markets, but the cannabis community is creative and persistent and elected officials like tax dollars. We can expect advocates and politicians to work out some common sense solutions, especially as legalization becomes more mainstream in Canada.

Keep up with the latest in Canada’s cannabis business development! Join the International Cannabis Business Conference in Kauai, Hawaii on December 1-3, 2017, and Vancouver, British Columbia in June 24 and 25, 2018.

California Insurance Commissioner Announces Major Commercial Carrier to Cover Cannabis

Written by Amber Iris Langston on September 29, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC San Francisco.

California Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones takes his job very seriously. Purportedly, he is one of only two persons at the state capitol building in Sacramento who is allowed to carry a gun.

I’m not exactly sure why the insurance commissioner needs a gun, so let’s just go with “he takes his job very seriously.”

In any case, Jones has been in the role since 2011, watching the cannabis industry accelerate into a growing behemoth. In that time, business owners and entrepreneurs have been kicked around in every imaginable way – and the inability to access quality insurance coverage has most definitely done some of the kicking. While niche insurance firms have come forward to fill in the role, no major carrier has been willing to step out and take their own risks.

That’s about to change. Then the dominoes start to fall.

From Leafly:

“While a number of niche, so-called surplus-lines insurers currently do offer insurance products to the cannabis industry, the plans tend to be expensive and available only to certain elements of the cannabis industry. ‘It means that there is some coverage available, but it’s not as competitive as it could be if the major commercial carriers come in, too,’ Jones said, naming Farmers, State Farm, Nationwide, AIG, and others as examples.

“To that end, Jones’ office has been soliciting filings from more mainstream insurers. ‘We’re very aggressively sitting down with senior executives of these companies and educating them about the cannabis industry,’ he said. ‘I’m calling the CEOs of major commercial insurance companies personally as the regulator of the largest market in the United States.'”

His efforts seemed to have paid off, and Jones has something to smile about. (It’s quite the smile.) Jones informed an auditorium full of cannabis industry players at the National Cannabis Industry Association‘s Cannabis Business Conference in Anaheim last week that “we actually have one admitted commercial carrier that has filed a commercial product in California.” While he wasn’t yet ready to announce which carrier has made the agreement, the formal announcement will be coming in a few weeks, and more are sure to follow.

“We’re also hopeful you’ll stayed tuned, because we think others are going to file as well,” he added. “Once one does it, oftentimes the others will then say, “Gee, we can do the same thing.'”

Hopefully we will soon all be smiling like Dave Jones.

Seriously, though, check out that smile. It’s a smile that says, “I just made a deal with a major national carrier of insurance. And also, I’m running for California Attorney General in 2018.” Bully for him!

Stay on top of the latest in California cannabis in 2018 and join the International Cannabis Business Conference in San Francisco on February 1 & 2, 2018! You also may be interested in networking with entrepreneurs, investors and advocates from around the globe at the ICBC in beautiful Kauai, Hawaii, December 1st thru the 3rd.

Canadian Courts Could Strike Down Cannabis Monopolies

Written by Amber Iris Langston on September 28, 2017. Posted in Business, CBC Vancouver.

Jodie Giesz-Ramsay, known to many as Jodie Emery, co-owner of Cannabis Culture magazine and its associated businesses based in Vancouver, BC, is mounting an effort to challenge some of the provisions in Canada’s new adult-legalization law, known as The Cannabis Act, which is scheduled to go into effect in July 2018. Specifically, Giesz-Ramsay alleges that tight restrictions on production and distribution in the new law will result in a monopoly over the nascent industry which essentially serves to choke off dispensaries, licensed producers and mail-order distributors already serving patient and consumer needs in Canada. The Cannabis Act will currently allow Canadian territories and provinces to create their own regulatory structure to oversee production, distribution and sales.

The group is seeking to intervene in an upcoming case being heard by the Supreme Court of Canada, in order to bring these grievances to the legal system. In its intervention, Cannabis Culture is representing 28 other corporations. The case involves a man who was arrested and charged for transporting too large a quantity of alcohol from one Canadian province to another, and is being watched closely by small and large producers of beer and wine, multiple business and consumer organizations, among others.

The two provinces embroiled in the case include Ontario, which has stated an intention to make the Liquor Control Board of Ontario the sole provider for adult-use cannabis, and New Brunswick, which announced a new Crown corporation (quasi governmental agency) partnering with private companies Organigram and Canopy Growth for the same purpose.

The Court has yet to decide if it will accept the application for intervention, but there appears to be a willingness to discuss the issue.

From the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation:

“The court has expressed a willingness to revisit issues ‘should a sea change in the legal, political, or social landscape occur,’ Cannabis Culture points out.

“‘The legalization of cannabis and the emergence of an entirely new industry are precisely the type of sea change which needs to be heard in this case because of the effects interprovincial trade barriers have on the extant and emergent cannabis industry,’ it says.

“Cannabis Culture is representing 28 other entities that collectively operate about 100 cannabis dispensaries, several of which also operate mail-order distribution models.”

The Canada Supreme Court is scheduled to hold hearings on the case December 5 and 6. The people of Canada support private cannabis retailers. If Canadian courts agree that cannabis should be treated similar to alcohol, then consumers will have the option of both private and government-connected retailers to choose from.

The International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC) keeps you on top of the latest in Canada’s cannabis scene. Join ICBC next June 24-25, 2018 in Vancouver, BC, as the new Canadian market begins its launch. If you want to know what’s happening sooner, join ICBC this December 1-3, 2017 in Kauai, Hawaii!