Cut regulations to increase equity in the legal marijuana industry – Orange County Register

When Californians voted to legalize recreational marijuana in 2016, advocates made a compelling promise. Proposition 64 would promote “social justice” by clearing the marijuana records of tens of thousands of people and by helping local and mostly minority entrepreneurs get a “fair” license to operate. cannabis business. So far, the state has failed on both fronts.

An investigation by the Los Angeles Times last month found that “at least 34,000 cannabis applications remain incompletely processed by the courts” – a situation that “could have dire consequences for those seeking employment, professional licensing, (and) home loans”. These convictions have had the most devastating impact on those with lower incomes.

The newspaper also revealed that new state regulations have repeatedly frustrated applicants for black, Latino and other minority cannabis licenses, despite the ensuing legislation (Senate Bill). 1294) that legislators designed to initiate a social equality program. The report added that applicants were “hit from one bureaucratic hurdle after another”.

This editorial board supports Proposition 64 and continues to advocate for the legalization of marijuana on issues of social justice and freedom. Both concerns – the slow rate of clearance for past convictions and the obstacles that beginner entrepreneurs face in getting a license – stem from an overly bureaucratic approach. of California for everything.