Oregon needs one separate agency to regulate cannabis, report finds

Oregon’s cannabis industry needs to be regulated by one independent agency instead of three separate bodies, according to a report drafted by the Oregon Cannabis Commission.

The study concluded that having the marijuana industry regulated by three government agencies creates the potential for conflict and an inconsistent vision, the Salem Statesman Journal reported.

Cultivators, in particular, were cited in the report as finding the three-pronged approach “confusing and difficult to navigate.”

Here’s what you need to know:

• Oregon’s cannabis businesses are regulated by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) and Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA).
• The report is still in draft mode, and no recommendations have been made by the OHA.
• The cannabis commission will meet Nov. 27 to discuss the report and could vote on it then.
• The move would streamline the process and help to clear up some jurisdictional questions, according to Beau Whitney, a Portland-based economist.