Connecticut Legislature Passes Cannabis Omnibus Bill: Here Are The Details

The Connecticut legislature recently passed a significant bill known as the cannabis omnibus bill, or House Bill 6699.

This comprehensive piece of legislation encompasses various provisions related to cannabis regulation and introduces several noteworthy changes and initiatives.

“This is an omnibus cannabis bill that makes meaningful changes to the licensing process and operation of a cannabis business in Connecticut. This bill represents the first changes to the Connecticut cannabis licensing and regulatory framework in more than a year,” Michelle Bodian, a partner at Vicente LLP, a leading cannabis law firm told Benzinga.

Key Points of the Cannabis Omnibus Bill 

• Definition of "Edible Cannabis Product": The bill introduces a clear and specific definition of "edible cannabis product." This definition aims to establish guidelines and standards regarding the production, labeling and sale of cannabis-infused edible products. By providing a comprehensive definition, the bill ensures consumer safety and regulatory compliance in the edible cannabis market.
• Redefinition of "Bona Fide Labor Organization:" The bill redefines the term "bona fide labor organization" within the context of cannabis regulation. This revision aims to clarify the rights, privileges and responsibilities of labor organizations in the cannabis industry, which effectively represent the interests of cannabis workers to negotiate fair labor practices.
• Office of the Cannabis Ombudsman: To oversee and regulate the cannabis industry, HB 6699 establishes an Office of the Cannabis Ombudsman. This specialized office will be responsible for monitoring compliance, resolving disputes, and addressing concerns related to cannabis operations and regulations. Additionally, it establishes a task force to study the potential impact of authorized individuals who are authorized to cultivate cannabis in their residences to sell, at retail, such cannabis at events organized, at least in part, to facilitate such sales.
• Off-Site Event Permits: HB 6699 establishes a system for off-site event permits for retailers and hybrid retailers of adult-use cannabis. This provision allows these businesses to participate in organized events where they can sell cannabis products outside their designated premises. The introduction of off-site event permits provides opportunities for engagement and expansion within the cannabis industry.

Sponsored by Reps. David Michel (D) and Delany Hubert D. (D), the measure now awaits the approval of Governor Ned Lamont (D). “Pending the governor's approval, the bill takes effect on July 1, 2023, and will require updates to the Department of Consumer Protection(DCP)'s policies,” said Bodian.

Implications Of The Bill For The Industry In CT

According to Bodian, the cannabis omnibus bill in Connecticut brings impactful changes to the industry. “This bill impacts the lottery process for applicants (as it includes a cap on submission), changes definitions, clarifies license types, classifies 'high-THC hemp products' as marijuana, and extends the deadlines by which lottery applicants have to achieve a final license."

Although existing businesses may face disruptions, new applicants will have extended deadlines, she added.

Despite potential stakeholders who feel that not all of their requested modifications were included in the final version of the bill, it is expected that the governor will sign the bill into law, she concluded.

The passage of the cannabis omnibus bill, HB 6699, by the Connecticut legislature represents a significant step forward in the state's cannabis regulation and industry development.

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