The Office of Cannabis Policy (OCP) has launched a "Cannabis Conversations" panel series to engage with program participants and stakeholders on industry-specific topics.
Cannabis Conversation on Sample Collection
In light of recent audit testing and recalls of adult use cannabis and cannabis products, the Office of Cannabis Policy hosted a Cannabis Conversation on Sample Collection on December 12, 2024. This webinar provided licensees with reminders and best practices for self-sampling, including how to ensure a representative sample is properly collected from any batch subject to mandatory testing. OCP also discussed lessons learned from its audit testing program and the recent issuance of adult use cannabis recalls in Maine.
A recording of this event is available on OCP's YouTube channel.
Resources Shared:
- Rules Governing the Adult Use Cannabis Program
- Best Practice Guide for Sample Collection
- Adult Use Sample Collection Reminders and Mandatory Testing for Pesticides Guidance
Panelists:
Vern Malloch, Deputy Director of Operations, Maine Office of Cannabis Policy
Diana McKenzie, Chemist II, Maine Office of Cannabis Policy
Moderator:
John Hudak, Director, Maine Office of Cannabis Policy
Cannabis Conversation on Banking
OCP's panel discussion on November 28, 2023, examined the obstacles interested financial institutions face at the state and federal levels when it comes to engaging with cannabis businesses, the chances and potential impacts of federal cannabis banking reform, and steps Maine cannabis businesses and stakeholders can take to improve access to banking.
A recording of this event is available on OCP's YouTube channel.
Resources Shared:
- Regulatory Requirements for Cannabis-Related Businesses and Financial Institutions
- Research: 3 Steps to Improve Anti-money Laundering Regulation
- SAFER Banking Act
- SAFE Banking Act of 2023
Panelists:
Aaron Klein, Miriam K. Carliner Chair and senior fellow in Economic Studies, Brookings Institution
Ellen Parent, Director of Compliance, Maine Credit Union League
Moderator:
John Hudak, Director, Office of Cannabis Policy
Cannabis Conversation on Testing & Contaminants
OCP hosted a panel discussion on September 19, 2023, exploring the different contaminants that can be found in cannabis, the important role testing plays in ensuring regulated cannabis is free of these harmful contaminants, and how they can affect the health of patients and consumers.
A recording of this event is available on OCP's YouTube channel.
Resources Shared:
- OCP: Understanding Cannabis Testing Requirements & Results in Maine
- OCP/ASA: Presentation shared during the event
- ASA: Extended presentation
- ASA: A Patient's Guide to Reading Labels
- ASA: A Patient's Guide to Medical Cannabis
- ASA: Regulating Patient Health Report
- ASA: 2022 State of States Report
Panelists:
Steph Sherer, Founder and President, Americans for Safe Access (ASA)
Patty Locuratolo Hymanson, MD, Neurologist, Maine State Representative 2015-2022
Moderator:
John Hudak, Director, Office of Cannabis Policy
Cannabis Conversation on Sustainability
As cannabis cultivation and consumption rates continue to increase in Maine and across the country, so does the industry’s environmental footprint. OCP's Cannabis Conversation on Sustainability held on July 18, 2023, covered best practices for energy efficiency, waste minimization, water management, and more.
A recording of this event is available on OCP's YouTube channel.
Resources Shared:
- Maine DEP: Environmental Guidance for the Cannabis Sector
- City of Denver: Cannabis Environmental Best Management Practices Guide
- CMP: What is Demand?
- CMP: Demand Control
- Efficiency Maine: Horticultural Lighting and Dehumidification Project
- MOFGA: Certified Clean Cannabis Program
Panelists:
Julie Churchill, Director of the Office of Innovation and Assistance, Maine Department of Environmental Protection
Mark King, Environmental Specialist, Maine Department of Environmental Protection
Daniel Raynor, Industrial Administrator for Energize Denver, Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency
Skip Sullivan, Cofounder, High Tide Organic
Moderator:
John Hudak, Director, Office of Cannabis Policy