Out-of-state marijuana labs show interest in North Dakota

Seven companies with experience in other states have expressed interest in testing medical marijuana in North Dakota, which is setting up an MMJ program approved by voters last year.

State officials had expressed concern about how much interest there would be among in-state labs that focus mainly on agricultural and environmental testing.

Out-of-state companies “have got some experience, the knowledge – I assume the methodology – down” on testing MMJ for contaminants, including pesticides and molds, and to ensure that levels of THC are accurately labeled, said Kenan Bullinger, director of the health department’s medical marijuana division.

The agency earlier this month sought non-binding letters of intent from laboratories so officials could gauge interest and ensure a lab would be available for testing once a system is established for making the drug legally available to qualified patients.

North Dakota voters approved medical cannabis last November, and the governor in April approved rules crafted by lawmakers.

The health department is finishing administrative rules that will cover such things as lab testing, security requirements and transportation regulations.

– Associated Press