The Cannabis Control Commission, already struggling amidst a leadership vacuum, is now saying it may have to eliminate some of its programs, including a touted training initiative for applicants seeking social equity licenses because the Legislature failed to fully fund its budget.
At a meeting of the commission on Thursday, officials said the budget approved by the Legislature and signed by the governor provided $19.8 million – $2.8 million less than what the agency had requested.
Agency officials said the budget shortfall has resulted in jobs going unfilled and mandated research and public awareness campaigns being put on hold. The officials said social equity programming and outreach is in danger and a proposal for a forensic audit of the agency has been shelved.
"We have a lot of challenges right now in our budget," said Deborah Hilton-Creek, the acting executive director of the agency. "It is not looking that great for us, but we continue to do the best we can with the little we have."
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