Sonoma Co. Testing Labs Can Remain Open Despite FAQs on County Website
March 27, 2020
Recently, we discussed a Shelter-in-Place Order issued by Sonoma County in response to the coronavirus outbreak. After that blog post was published, the county added a new FAQ to their website regarding cannabis testing labs that has led to much confusion. Specifically, it reads:
Q: Is a Cannabis testing lab an allowed activity?
A: A cannabis testing. lab is not an essential business unless it is testing medical cannabis in support of a healthcare operation.
We reached out to the Sonoma County Department of Health Services and confirmed with a staff member that the intent of the county order was not to make existing BCC-licensed cannabis testing labs shut down. The staffer was unsure why this particular FAQ was added, as the Order itself says nothing about cannabis testing labs.
We also received verbal confirmation that the county does not intend to verify that all cannabis being sold by county retailers during this time is provided only to customers with a doctor’s recommendation. This is important, as the County’s Order states that licensed dispensaries “shall operate only for the purpose of providing medical cannabis, and only via curbside pickup or delivery,” creating confusion among local retailers.
We have requested that the county update their coronavirus FAQ page accordingly.
We will continue to keep you updated as this story develops.
This information is provided as a public educational service and is not intended as legal advice. For specific questions about whether your cannabis or hemp business is impacted by state and local coronavirus shutdowns, contact the Law Offices of Omar Figueroa at (707) 829-0215 or info@omarfigueroa.com to schedule a confidential legal consultation.