LOCAL SPOTLIGHT
How Legal Cannabis Affects Oregon Medford, OR | July 2022 | Contributed C annabis is always a hot topic. With legalization, communities have seen a rise in both legal and illegal activities. While it may not always be obvious and an overall economic boost that would otherwise not exist. Additionally, locally owned and operated businesses of any industry are far more impactful to a community than non-local stores. Cannabis is no different. Supporting local businesses keeps 25 percent more money in the community
which is which, there are very important distinctions that set them apart. The biggest differences being the quality of the product and the adherence to strict guidelines, rules and regulations that ensure creation of quality products that are lab-tested for consumer safety. When a community embraces legal cannabis, the strict regulations surrounding its production and sale allow for control. All legal cannabis products are tested for consumer safety and potency and regulated cannabis growers are monitored to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations including zoning and environmental laws. The legal cannabis industry provides jobs for the community, starting directly with cannabis grows and dispensaries where workers are needed to grow, process, distribute, and sell cannabis products. As an extension, there are secondary industries that benefit as well, including construction, accounting, financial, design services, and so on. In Oregon, cannabis jobs grew 4% in 2020, reaching 17,981 workers, and growth continues year over year. While cannabis is legal in Oregon, there are many states who have yet to legalize. This creates an influx of tourism
than non-local businesses which stimulates the local economy and provides opportunity for greater growth in the community. People have been consuming cannabis for decades, regardless of its legality, and will continue to do so. Legal cannabis means regulated, safe access, and tax revenue for the state. At a 17% state retail rate, the taxes placed on cannabis in Oregon brought in $178,262,488 in 2021. Where did these taxes go? These funds went towards the public school system, mental health/alcoholism/drug services, the Oregon state police, the Oregon Health Authority for drug treatment and prevention, and to Oregon cities and counties. Supporting legal cannabis is not only important for the health and safety of consumers, as they will continue to buy cannabis products, but will also benefit the community and the local economy. Grown Rogue is passionate about pure, quality cannabis products and will always be anchored in strong family values, authenticity, and integrity while being committed to educating and empowering the communities we operate in. n
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The Business Review | July 2022
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