Auditors who reviewed Utah's medical cannabis program say the licensing body for the industry operates largely as "a rubber stamp" on oversight questions.
Their review calls, broadly, for more action to standardize how inspections are handled and more specific language on how to categorize infractions in a bid to better gauge compliance by cannabis producers with state laws. The report from the Office of the Legislative Auditor General, released Tuesday, further suggests that Utah lawmakers potentially take a look at the issue.
"The Legislature could consider reevaluating the roles and responsibilities of the Cannabis Production Establishment and Pharmacy Licensing Advisory Board to facilitate clearer expectations and effective duties," the report says. The cannabis advisory board — focus of much of the audit — oversees licensing of cannabis producers in Utah.
The audit didn't identify any specific issues, problems or abuses that have emerged among cannabis growers, retailers or others involved in the industry. Proposition 2, approved by Utah voters in 2018, led to legalization of medical marijuana in Utah and rules allowing for cultivation of cannabis in Utah by eight producers. However, the audit seemed to make a call for more rigorous review and reporting by the seven-member cannabis advisory board when taking action.
Read more at KSL.com
