The California Bureau of Cannabis Control (Bureau) recently provided notice to the public of proposed emergency cannabis regulations.
The new cannabis regulations set out by the California Bureau of Cannabis Control would make it mandatory for cannabis businesses to post their unique Quick Response Code (QR Code) certificate in storefront windows and carry it with them while transporting or delivering cannabis.
The move is designed to help consumers identify licensed cannabis retail stores, assist law enforcement and support the legal cannabis market where products such as vape cartridges are routinely tested to protect public health and safety.
Emergency cannabis regulations
The proposed regulations would require licensed retailers to print and post their unique QR Code in storefront windows or near entrances, to help educate consumers about the importance of supporting and purchasing products from the legal cannabis market.
Smartphone users are able to use their smartphone camera to scan the displayed QR Code, which automatically links to the Bureau’s Online License Search and confirms the cannabis retailer’s license status.
The system also displays the retailer’s address and license location to ensure that the information is not counterfeit.
Bureau Chief Lori Ajax said: “The proposed regulations will help consumers avoid purchasing cannabis goods from unlicensed businesses by providing a simple way to confirm licensure immediately before entering the premises or receiving a delivery.
“These requirements will also assist law enforcement in distinguishing between legal and illegal transportation of cannabis goods.”
The announcement comes after the Bureau’s recent launch of a QR Code campaign, which encourages licensees to voluntarily post a Bureau provided unique QR Code certificate that consumers can scan when they visit a licensed cannabis retailer.
Following the required minimum five-working day notice to the public, the Bureau will file the emergency regulations with the Office of Administrative Law (OAL).
The five-calendar day formal public comment period begins when OAL publishes the proposed regulations as being “under review” on its website: https://oal.ca.gov/.
