First retail business license issued as cannabis café rules appear to stall

Last update: September 9, 2016

The Marijuana Control Board issued the state’s first retail business license on September 8, 2016, reaching yet another milestone in the rollout of the state’s regulatory program. Many other license applications continue to be reviewed, and that process continues.

Unfortunately, the board’s commitment to establish rules for cannabis cafés by now seems to have stalled. With establishments that provide alcohol commonly available for most adults, it is reasonable for those 21 and over to have access to locations that provide a safer substance — whether they are residents or not. We are monitoring the situation closely and encourage Alaska to follow through with its sensible solution to a problem that has persisted in other similar state programs.

For specifics on the state program, including a calendar with important benchmarks, an FAQ, the most recently proposed cannabis café regulations, and training videos for applicants, click here.

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