1) Additional Regulations on Synthetic Cannabinoids
2) Closing of the Delta-9 Loophole for Hemp Products
Closing the delta-9 loophole is crucial to ensure consumer safety and uphold Montana’s high standards for cannabis products. Delta-9 THC derived from hemp is often sold online and in unregulated markets, bypassing the rigorous testing required for Montana’s legal cannabis products. These untested products can contain harmful contaminants and pose significant risks to consumers. Additionally, they are frequently marketed in ways that directly appeal to children, such as colorful packaging and candy-like forms, without any of the advertising restrictions or safety regulations imposed on licensed cannabis businesses. Closing this loophole will protect public health, prevent unsafe products from reaching consumers, and ensure a level playing field for Montana’s regulated cannabis market.
3) Local Moratoriums on New Dispensaries
Supporting a local moratorium on new dispensary licenses aligns the cannabis industry with the principles of local governance and responsible growth. Just as counties regulate zoning, liquor licenses, and other businesses to balance community needs, a moratorium allows local governments to thoughtfully manage the number and placement of dispensaries. This ensures that communities have a say in how the industry grows while maintaining market stability for existing businesses. By backing this measure, the cannabis industry demonstrates its commitment to being a collaborative and respectful partner in Montana’s communities, prioritizing sustainable development that benefits everyone.
4) Statewide Freeze on New Licenses
5) Additional Restrictions on Cannabis Related Events
Events provide an excellent opportunity for cannabis companies to connect with their customers and foster a sense of community. However, we believe these events should take place on private property with proper age verification processes in place. Public events can lack effective measures to ensure minors are not exposed to cannabis-related activities. Our priority is to protect youth by minimizing their exposure to cannabis in public spaces, while still supporting responsible and targeted marketing efforts for cannabis businesses through private, controlled events.
6) Maintain Existing Warning Labels and Packaging Standards
Maintaining existing warning labels and packaging standards is essential to ensuring consumer safety, preventing accidental consumption, and upholding public confidence in the cannabis industry. Current standards, which include clear warnings about THC content, proper usage, and potential risks, serve to educate consumers while reducing the likelihood of misuse. Child-resistant packaging and the label approval process and requirements are critical components in minimizing youth exposure and protecting public health. By preserving these established guidelines, regulators can balance industry innovation with responsible practices that prioritize consumer protection and public safety.
7) Enact Strict Ethics Guidelines for Members of Governing and Regulatory Bodies
To safeguard public trust in cannabis regulation and ensure impartial decision-making, we recommend implementing robust ethical standards prohibiting members of governing and regulatory bodies from holding financial interests in the cannabis industry during their tenure. Additionally, a mandatory 3- to 5-year cooling-off period should be enforced for government employees, legislators, and regulators leaving positions directly involved in cannabis oversight, preventing them from accepting employment, consulting, or lobbying roles within the cannabis industry. During this period, they should also be restricted from engaging in communication with former agencies or colleagues on behalf of cannabis businesses. Mandatory ethics training and oversight by an independent committee should be instituted to ensure compliance, with clear penalties for violations, such as fines, disqualification, or legal action. These measures aim to prevent conflicts of interest, promote transparency, and protect the integrity of cannabis industry governance.
8) Enact Compounding License Fees for Dispensaries
Implementing a compounding license fee is a crucial step in preventing the rise of “Big Cannabis” and safeguarding consumers and the general public from negatives of corporate dominance. Under this structure, dispensaries would pay $5,000 for their first license, with the fee increasing by $5,000 for each additional license. This approach limits the ability of large corporations to outcompete small, locally owned businesses, ensuring that the market remains diverse and community-focused. By discouraging monopolistic practices and unchecked expansion, the compounding fee protects smaller operators and fosters fair competition. Furthermore, the additional revenue generated will strengthen the Cannabis Control Division (CCD), providing the resources necessary to uphold rigorous regulations and maintain a balanced, equitable cannabis market.