http://www.opb.org/news/article/oregonians-tell-olcc-they-want-lots-of-small-pot-businesses/
February 27, 2015
Oregonians Tell OLCC They Want Lots Of Small Pot Businesses
By Kristian Foden-Vencil
More than 400 people gathered in Tigard on Thursday to talk about the future of marijuana in Oregon.
Portland artist and bartender, Sundari Franklin, attended an OLCC forum to learn about proposed pot rules and regulations. She’s thinking about setting up a pot growing operation.
Portland artist and bartender, Sundari Franklin, attended an OLCC forum to learn about proposed pot rules and regulations. She’s thinking about setting up a pot growing operation.
The Oregon Liquor Control Commission has been tasked with regulating the pot industry.
OLCC Chairman Rob Patridge says the industry may be newly legal, but it’s already well established.
“Really, it’s about regulating this industry in a way that brings people out of the black market and gray market, into the light,” he said. “We certainly have a great brand here in Oregon. We certainly have great product, according to those who use it. We’ve got the lowest marginal tax, so it looks like an opportunity for people.”
He says people want to know how recreational pot is going to affect medical pot. And they want the state to foster a craft industry with lots of small businesses, rather than one or two big players.
Beginning July 1st, it’ll be legal for Oregonians to grow a few plants at home, although they wont’ be able to sell it or use it in public.
The first retail stores aren’t expected until the fall of 2016.