Alaska gov isn’t looking to repeal Marijuana Control Board this session

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy does not plan to introduce legislation this session that would propose eliminating the board that regulates the state’s legal marijuana industry.

Spokesman Matt Shuckerow said the decision was based on the time left in the session and the governor’s focus on other legislative priorities.

It was unclear whether Dunleavy plans to pursue the idea in the future.

Earlier this year, it came to light that legislation expected from Dunleavy included repeal of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and the Marijuana Control Board with the intent to transfer the authority and responsibility of the agencies to the commissioner of the commerce department.

The idea drew pushback from members of Alaska’s marijuana business community who support how the board currently approaches the industry and its issues.

Shuckerow also said the governor does not plan to appoint a new member to the Marijuana Control Board until after the legislative session ends around May 14.

The Legislature, meeting in joint session last week to consider confirmation of Dunleavy appointees, rejected his nomination of cannabis opponent Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.

Moving forward, Shuckerow said, the governor will “examine prospective candidates and make a selection to the Marijuana Control Board that he believes will best serve Alaska.”

– Associated Press