California State Fair Has First State-Sanctioned Cannabis Competition
Late last year, officials in California announced that the State Fair in 2022 would include a cannabis competition. Despite cannabis being legal in California since 2016, this is the first time a competition of this kind would be state-sanctioned. This was a celebrated step forward for the industry, indicating that marijuana is officially being acknowledged as a legitimate commodity in the state that deserves the same treatment as other goods and industries. There were over 300 entries submitted in three separate grow-type divisions. The California State Fair officially announced the winners of the competition and those products will be featured at an exhibit when the State Fair runs, which is July 15-31 this year.
New York Cannabis Regulators Appoint a Chief Equity Officer
New York officials have been very vocal about their plans to ensure that their cannabis market is diverse and socially equitable. Taking a step toward that goal, the Cannabis Control Board appointed third-generation farmer Damian Fagon as the first chief equity officer for the state’s legal cannabis industry. This move follows another important step toward social equity for the industry. Last week, Governor Kathy Hochul appointed a minority-led investment team to manage the state’s $200 million social equity fund. Hochul also appointed an advisory board of 20 members to help create a social equity plan.
Kansas Delta-8 THC Retailer Sues the State
The owner of a delta-8 THC retail store in Kansas is suing state officials. Murray Dines owns Terpene Distribution and the Guardian Cannabis THC Recreational Dispensary and his suit claims that state Attorney General Derek Schmidt was incorrect in telling law enforcement that delta-8 THC products are illegal drugs, regardless of if they are derived from hemp. After State AG Schmidt issued this statement, Dines’ store in Topeka was raided, and over $120,000 worth of delta-8 THC products were seized by law enforcement. Dines argues that under federal law, states are not permitted to change the definition of hemp, and products derived from hemp are completely legal. State officials have not issued a response to the lawsuit.