Minnesota’s journey towards establishing a legal cannabis industry hit a roadblock with the resignation of Erin Dupree, the appointed director of the new marijuana regulatory agency. Reports surfaced about Dupree's involvement in selling cannabis products that exceeded the state’s legal limits on THC potency through her business, Loonacy Cannabis Co.
The reports indicated that Dupree’s business, based in Apple Valley, advertised edible products containing THC levels beyond the state-approved limit. State law permits hemp-derived edibles to have up to 5 milligrams of THC per serving, and 50 milligrams per package. Dupree’s products were found to be advertising 10 milligrams per serving and 150 milligrams per package.
Dupree, the first director of the Office of Cannabis Management in the state, defended her actions, stating she never knowingly sold noncompliant products and removed them upon discovery. However, she acknowledged that her presence was hindering the state's cannabis regulation efforts, leading to her premature termination from her position on October 2.
Governor Tim Walz acknowledged the oversight in Dupree's appointment, saying, "In this case, the process did not work and we got this wrong." The interim director, Charlene Briner, will continue in her role, ensuring the agency's functions remain uninterrupted.
Minnesota’s legalization allowed individuals 21 and older to possess and grow marijuana for recreational use, with certain limitations. The state, being the 23rd in the country to legalize recreational marijuana, is working towards establishing a robust legal cannabis industry. Surrounding states like Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and North Dakota, are yet to legalize it.
Minnesota's cannabis industry's growth underscores the need for strict regulation and oversight, highlighting the importance of this situation for other states considering legalizing cannabis.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-tinnakorn-jorruang
Categories: Minnesota, Crops