State Pot Regulators Meet With Federal Officials to Discuss Legalization

Cannabis regulators from more than two dozen states, including California, met with federal officials and members of Congress last week to discuss the implications of future federal legalization.

The meeting was organized by the Cannabis Regulators Association (CANNRA), a national organization of pot regulators from 19 states.

“I think the primary thing we wanted to get across is, as federal policymakers are engaged in conversations and thoughtfully considering how to approach federal policy reform, that it’s critical that state regulators have a seat at the table to share our perspective,” Andrew Brisbo, executive director of the Michigan’s Marijuana Regulatory Agency, told Marijuana Moment.

“One particular thing we want to ensure is that there’s consideration for existing state frameworks,” he added. “There’s been a lot of time and investment and engagement with stakeholders in the various states that have legalized in their specific frameworks—and there are some differences, and those things aren’t necessarily accidents.”

A key focus of discussion was banking reform and the immediate need for legislation that protects banks servicing state-legal marijuana businesses.

Read more about the meeting here.