Legislature(2019 - 2020)BELTZ 105 (TSBldg)
02/12/2019 01:30 PM Senate LABOR & COMMERCE
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| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| Confirmation Hearing(s): | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
ALASKA STATE LEGISLATURE
SENATE LABOR AND COMMERCE STANDING COMMITTEE
February 12, 2019
1:31 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT
Senator Lora Reinbold, Chair
Senator Mia Costello, Vice Chair
Senator Click Bishop
Senator Chris Birch
Senator Elvi Gray-Jackson
MEMBERS ABSENT
All members present
COMMITTEE CALENDAR
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S):
Alcoholic Beverage Control Board
Charlie Cross - Nome
- RESCHEDULED TO 2/14/19
Marijuana Control Board
Vivian Stiver - Fairbanks
CONFIRMATION ADVANCED
Christopher Jaime - Soldotna
RESCHEDULED TO 2/14/19
PREVIOUS COMMITTEE ACTION
No previous action to record
WITNESS REGISTER
VIVIAN STIVER, Appointee
Marijuana Control Board
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified as appointee to the Marijuana
Control Board.
RICK HINKEY, representing himself
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Vivian Stiver,
appointee to the Marijuana Control Board.
CARY CARRIGAN, Executive Director
Alaska Marijuana Industry Association
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
JUANITA ALLIK, Principal
Wonderland Emporium
Chugiak, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
KAREN CLAUTICE, representing herself
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Vivian Stiver,
appointee to the Marijuana Control Board.
CHERYL WASHBURN, representing herself; Staff
Alaskan Blooms
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
TINA SMITH, Chief Operating Officer
Midnight Greenery
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
VANESSA LISTON-CUNNINGHAM, Agent
Matanuska Medicine Woman, LLC
Knik, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
NICHOLAS REAUME, Manager
Greatland Ganja
Soldotna, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
J.R. TUEL, representing himself
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
KAREN LOWRY, Alaskan Blooms
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
BRUCE CAMPBELL, representing himself
Anchorage. Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of the appointment of
Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
BRUCE SCHULTE, representing himself
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
MICHELLE CLEAVER, Owner, Weed Dudes
Sitka, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to Vivian Stiver,
appointee to the Marijuana Control Board.
RYAN TUNSETH, Owner
East Rip
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
PATRICIA PATTERSON, Owner
High Bush Buds
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the confirmation
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
DOLLYNDA PHELPS, Co-Owner
Peace Frog Botanicals
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
REBECCA REIN, Houston Collective
Houston, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
TYLER SWAN, representing himself
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
BYRON DALTON, representing himself
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
SCOTT GREEMAN, representing himself
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
LYNETTE CLARK, Owner
Mining our Own Business
Fox, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
KIM DUNSHIE-HERNING, representing herself
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
JOESPH EICKHOLT, Owner
Alaska Beasty Buds
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
LINDEN ANSON, representing self
Alaskan Blooms
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
JUDY ELEDGE, representing herself
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Vivian Stiver,
appointee to the Marijuana Control Board.
CHELSEA FOSTER, representing herself
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
BENJAMEN WILCOX, representing himself
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
CALEB SAUNDERS, Chief Executive Officer
Green Jar
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
LEIF ABEL, Vice President
Alaska Marijuana Industry Association
Kasilof, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
DOUG ANDERSON, Odin's Wagon
Kasilof, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
NATHAN DAVIS, representing himself
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
LISA COATES, Owner
Urban Extracts
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
COLE HOLLISTER, Chairman
Alaska Cannabis PAC; Co-Owner
Pakalolo Supply Company
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
TREVOR HAYNES, Owner
Good Cannabis
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
KATHRYN STASKON, Owner
Kenai Botanicals
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
JIM DYER, JKD Brands LLC
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
DWIGHT HAAK, representing himself
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
KERBY COMAN, Owner,
Green Degree, Rosebuds LLC
Wasilla, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
SHANE DEVAUGHN, representing himself
North Pole, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
JOSHUA COBIN, representing himself
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
EDITH VON WELTIN, Manager
Alaska Growth
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
TERRENCE ROBBINS, representing himself
Ketchikan, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Vivian Stiver,
appointee to the Marijuana Control Board.
ELIZABETH HOLM, representing herself
North Pole, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Vivian Stiver,
appointee to the Marijuana Control Board.
AARON RALPH, Owner
Alaska Cannabis Exchange; Board Member
Anchorage Cannabis Business Association
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
CHASE AMADOR, Employee
East Rip
Nikiski, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
KIM KOLE, Owner, Raspberry Roots;
Secretary, Alaska Marijuana Association
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
EMILY NENON, representing herself
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in support of Vivian Stiver,
appointee to the Marijuana Control Board.
LEAH LEVINTON, Co-Owner
Enlighten Alaska
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
ANTHONY OLIVIERI, Principal
Matanuska Medicine Women
Mat-Su Valley, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
LARRY O'KELLEY, representing himself
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
JAMES THORNTON, Owner
Secret Garden Cannabis
Fairview, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
MARGUERITA GILBERTSON, Denali Gold LLC
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
KATIE GOOD, representing herself
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
EVELYN REICH, Owner
Down to Earth Farms
Palmer, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
ED MARTIN, representing himself
Coopers Landing, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
CHASE GRIFFITH, Owner
Permafrost Distributors; President
Kenai Peninsula Alaska Marijuana Industry Association (KPAMIA)
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified during the confirmation hearing of
the appointment of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
MARC THEILLER, Co-Founder
Red Run Cannabis
Kenai, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified during the confirmation hearing
for Vivian Stiver's appointment to the Marijuana Control Board.
VICTORIA DAVIS, representing herself
Anchorage, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to the appointment
of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board.
SHOSHANA KUN, representing herself
Fairbanks, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to Vivian Stiver's
confirmation to the Marijuana Control Board.
HILDA LESTRON, representing herself
Seward, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to Vivian Stiver's
confirmation to the Marijuana Control Board.
JAMIE LETTERMAN, Owner
ThunderCloud9
Juneau, Alaska
POSITION STATEMENT: Testified in opposition to Vivian Stiver's
confirmation to the Marijuana Control Board.
ACTION NARRATIVE
1:31:40 PM
CHAIR LORA REINBOLD called the Senate Labor and Commerce
Standing Committee meeting to order at 1:31 p.m. Present at the
call to order were Senators Costello, Bishop, Birch, Gray-
Jackson and Chair Reinbold.
^CONFIRMATION HEARING(S):
CONFIRMATION HEARING(S):
Marijuana Control Board
1:32:28 PM
CHAIR REINBOLD announced that the only order of business would
be the confirmation hearing of Vivian Stiver as appointee to the
Marijuana Control Board.
1:34:04 PM
VIVIAN STIVER, Appointee, Marijuana Control Board, stated that
she has business and local government experience. She previously
served as a city council member and as a legislative aide, so
she is familiar with the legislative process. She said she would
like to serve and assist the public in navigating governmental
agencies in a courteous and understandable manner.
MS. STIVER said she was initially hesitant to apply and delayed
her application for a position on the Marijuana Control Board
(MCB) because she knew it would be somewhat controversial.
However, she reconsidered when she saw that two industry seats
were open.
She said she reviewed the fact sheet for the MCB. She discovered
that the board would be comprised of two industry seats during
the first two years and thereafter, the industry seat would
shift to an "industry or public member." Now that the MCB has
successfully put regulations into place, it is time for a
"public seat" be filled to inform the public of board actions,
she said.
MS. STIVER expressed an interest in education and in process.
She stated that she met with some members of the marijuana
industry in Anchorage for a full day on February 2, 2019. During
this time, she gained a tremendous amount of knowledge about the
marijuana industry. She toured businesses in Anchorage, shared
her concerns, and clarified some information. She said she was
encouraged after meeting with these industry members. One thing
that she can bring to the board is to assure people that the
public's voice will be heard.
1:36:26 PM
MS. STIVER stated that the MCB's regulations are set and
statutes must be followed. The public member will help assess
whether regulations are stifling the industry or if any changes
need to be made. She said that the marijuana industry is a
legitimate industry in Alaska, one that has a right to operate
successfully. However, the industry must be also be responsive
to the community, who must have confidence going forward, she
said.
1:37:26 PM
SENATOR COSTELLO said she is encouraged that hundreds of
Alaskans are willing to serve on boards and commissions. She
said Vivian Stiver's appointment to the board has caused some
concerns. She wanted to give her an opportunity to respond to
some concerns her constituents and others have expressed. She
just heard her say that the marijuana industry is a legitimate
industry. She pointed out one e-mail she received said that Ms.
Stiver would be unable to fairly carry out the duties of the
position because her public belief is that cannabis users are
non-functioning members of society.
MS. STIVER answered that statement could not be further from the
truth. She agreed she was active in her Fairbanks community and
felt that the city council needed to have ordinances in place
prior to marijuana businesses operating in the area. She
remarked:
We didn't win that. It went down. That was not an
attempt to make marijuana illegal. It was not a
judgment on anyone who uses any marijuana products.
So, that is inaccurate.
She replied that she would not have any problem working within
the parameters of the seat and working well for everyone
involved. She said that this is about an industry that is
growing. It is also about confidence in the community.
1:39:38 PM
SENATOR GRAY-JACKSON thanked her for her willingness to serve on
the board. She said one thing she truly believes in, no matter
whether a person is elected or appointed to a board or
commission, is how important it is to keep personal opinions out
of the decision-making process. The people of Alaska voted some
time ago to legalize marijuana, she said. She asked Ms. Stiver
whether she can be impartial when making decisions.
MS. STIVER answered yes; she can be impartial. She characterized
it as "cut and dry." The legislature is responsible to pass
legislation and the board has statutory authority to adopt
regulations. She agreed that conversations will take place
during board meetings. She has worked to learn more about the
marijuana industry and community. She recommended Kim Kole's
marijuana handler's test, which she characterized as amazing.
She has taken the test and she did well on it, she said. She
stressed that her interest is to learn, to understand, and to
work well with everyone.
1:41:01 PM
SENATOR BISHOP thanked her for her testimony. He said that as a
small business owner she knows what it takes to run a business.
He acknowledged that government can sometimes throw up
roadblocks. He is also a businessperson, albeit as kind of a
hobby, but he must also follow the state Department of Natural
Resources rules and regulations. He remarked that it is tough
for businesses to make their payroll. He imagined that Ms.
Stiver understands the necessary capital outlay and small
business payroll concerns. He asked her, if she is confirmed to
serve on the MCB, whether she will be considerate of the capital
expenditure made by these businesses. Secondly, he stated that
the governor campaigned on public safety, job growth, and for
new business in the state. He asked whether she would align with
[Governor Dunleavy's] promise to grow Alaska's economy, even if
it is for an industry that she has not previously supported.
MS. STIVER answered that she has had an opportunity to tour
businesses and she observed professionalism. She has learned
about their business procedures. She said she thinks if more
people understood that marijuana businesses must account for
their marijuana inventory at the end of each day, they would
have more appreciation for the self-regulation the industry has
undertaken. She remarked:
I'm all in. I am kind of shocked to say this, but when
I see responsible operators; I'm not seeing a problem.
As you know, in Fairbanks we did have a problem with
the business of "Frozen Buds" and they were shut down.
Regulation. It worked. We also had another issue with
a cultivator that had an odor. The City Council put in
some more ordinances and that is no longer a problem.
And so, I'm hearing "crickets." I am not hearing a
mass of problems in any way, shape, or form. I have
confidence that the folks that are in this industry
are serious; they are playing by the rules. I would
look to make sure that government doesn't overreach.
That is one thing I haven't tolerated in my own
businesses and have fought, and I certainly will do
the same for this industry.
1:43:50 PM
SENATOR BIRCH thanked her for her willingness to serve. He said
he was opposed to the ballot measure and actively worked against
the ballot measure that legalized marijuana. He said, "But, that
ship has sailed, if you will. It was publicly supported in the
state." He asked where she would see the industry headed, given
the amount of capital invested by businesses, the industry's
growth, and revenue derived from this industry. He acknowledged
he still has reservations. He has grandchildren and he does not
wish to see them have alcohol or any drug problems. He further
asked what role she views for herself on the MCB in her capacity
and with her experience.
MS. STIVER responded that she views the marijuana industry as a
growth industry. She has heard concerns expressed from several
viewpoints. However, the main purpose of the board is to be fair
and not over-regulate businesses, she said. As Senator Birch
mentioned, the marijuana industry is legal, the voters have
spoken, and she did not believe that will change. She reiterated
that she sees a growing and thriving marijuana industry. She
pointed out that she observed numerous - mostly older - people,
going in and out of the shops she visited. Further, she has
friends who obtain relief from medical marijuana. Although more
research needs to be done, the potential exists, she said. After
observing the passionate and responsible shop owners, she has
more confidence that "folks are in the business to do good
business."
1:46:28 PM
SENATOR BIRCH asked for further clarification on the
distribution between public and industry seats on the MCB.
MS. STIVER related her understanding that the MCB has two
members who represent industry for the first three years, but
the second industry seat could be converted and be filled by
either an industry or public member. In further response, she
stated the board membership includes a representative from
public safety, public health, and rural Alaska, and two from the
marijuana industry. She clarified that of the two
representatives from the marijuana industry, one could be a
public member.
1:47:57 PM
CHAIR REINBOLD opened public testimony on the confirmation of
Vivian Stiver as appointee to the Marijuana Control Board. She
asked business owners to list the name of the business. She
welcomed written testimony e-mailed to
senate.labor.and.commerce@akleg.gov.
1:49:10 PM
RICK HINKEY, representing himself, said he is testifying in
support of Vivian Stiver's appointment to the Marijuana Control
Board (MCB). He said he supports the legalization and
commercialization of cannabis, which is good for the community.
The industry has done well, and regulations have been developed
with robust dialogue from both sides. However, he has recently
seen less robust dialogue at meetings. He has attended many of
the MCB meetings and he has been frustrated with the decision-
making process, he said. He thinks that this appointment will
bring balance to the board. The primary mission of the board is
to regulate the industry, not to further the industry. He read
the mission statement for the Alcohol & Marijuana Control
Office, which read as follows:
Enforce alcohol and marijuana commerce laws and
provide clear, consistent standards for licensure to
protect the public from harm.
MR. HINKEY said he thinks this is a good appointment and
will bring balance to the board, that it will make the
industry stronger, not weaker.
1:51:43 PM
CARY CARRIGAN, Executive Director, Alaska Marijuana Industry
Association (AMIJ), said that the sincere opinion held by the
members of the AMIJ is that Vivian Stiver, a recognized
[marijuana] prohibitionist, is unfit to serve as a member of the
Marijuana Control Board (MCB). He remarked, "It is impossible
for a leopard to change its spots, in my opinion." He pointed
out her numerous opposition statements. She was insincere when
she says she reached out to the AMIA because she did not do so,
he said. In fact, he contacted the group she was affiliated with
twice to learn about her positions and was turned back both
times. They told him that he was not a "good fit" for their
"hand-selected" group.
MR. CARRIGAN said that someone with considerable knowledge about
cannabis, Brandon Emmett, is being displaced on the MCB by
someone with little or no knowledge about the industry. It is
not possible for someone to regulate an industry if the person
does not know anything about it. She cannot bring value or help
it grow successfully inside the tightly regulated bounds the
state has set out for it. The industry has repeatedly proved
that its businesses are comprised of good community citizens,
who work hard to ensure that the industry functions well.
Further, the AMIA works with the Western Regional Cannabis
Business Alliance and the American Trade Association for
Cannabis and Hemp to help set national standards for education.
He remarked that Ms. Stiver's understanding about marijuana
appears to be non-existent, so placing her on the MCB appears to
be a misguided effort to slow or stifle the marijuana industry.
This appointment comes at a time when the industry generates
ever-increasing revenue the state needs. He suggested public
confidence can be addressed by appointing the most-qualified
people to serve on the MCB. In closing, he offered to provide a
list of names of well-qualified people who are willing to serve.
1:54:31 PM
JUANITA ALLIK, Principal, Wonderland Emporium, remarked that
Vivian Stiver is a [marijuana] prohibitionist, that she is not
well educated on marijuana issues and should not serve on the
board.
1:55:20 PM
KAREN CLAUTICE, representing herself, stated her support for the
confirmation of Vivian Stiver to the MCB. She said she knows her
to be honest, level-headed, and hard-working. She is willing to
listen to all sides. She offered her belief that Vivian Stiver's
presence will bring balance and a good process to the board. She
read excerpts from an undated article she saw in the Fairbanks
Daily News Miner to illustrate her point that Ms. Stiver is
interested in providing public education and process.
1:56:27 PM
CHERYL WASHBURN, Staff, Alaskan Blooms; representing herself,
said, "I'm going with no for Vivian Stiver."
TINA SMITH, Chief Operating Officer, Midnight Greenery, stated
her strong opposition to Vivian Stiver's appointment. In her
words and actions, Ms. Stiver has actively worked against all
marijuana businesses and the industry for years. In fact, she
initiated a ballot measure that cost the marijuana industry
countless hours away from its businesses and tens of thousands
of dollars, including costs to local government. She said she
recently met with Ms. Stiver, who assured her that she had done
extensive research to back up her oppositional claims. However,
Ms. Stiver admitted she had not reviewed the regulations until
the previous evening. She characterized this as a "red flag" for
her since Ms. Stiver took actions to prohibit marijuana
businesses in Fairbanks without first obtaining knowledge about
the industry or attending any MCB meetings. Instead, she based
her actions on emotion. She would only continue to cause
mistrust if she serves on the board, she said.
1:59:08 PM
VANESSA LISTON-CUNNINGHAM, Agent, Matanuska Medicine Woman, LCC,
stated she is an investor and mentor of Matanuska Medicine
Woman, LLC, and her grandsons operate it. She said it has taken
everything her family has to work to legalize marijuana and
invest in a legal marijuana business. She said she is testifying
in opposition to the appointment of Vivian Stiver. She remarked
that Ms. Stiver is [disingenuous]. She said that she shares Mr.
Carrigan's viewpoint.
2:00:44 PM
NICHOLAS REAUME, Manager, Greatland Ganja, stated he is the
general manager of a cannabis cultivating facility on the Kenai
Peninsula that employs over a dozen Alaskans. His business
provides jobs and has generated over $13 million in revenue to
the state in three years. He testified in opposition to Vivian
Stiver to the MCB, who is a known [marijuana] prohibitionist who
tried to shut down the cannabis industry in the Mat-Su Borough.
He advocated for knowledgeable board members who are not opposed
to growth in the marijuana industry.
2:02:53 PM
J.R. TUEL, representing himself, said he works in the industry
and strongly opposes the appointment of Vivian Stiver to the
Marijuana Control Board. He said that he agrees with Mr.
Carrigan's testimony.
2:03:33 PM
KAREN LOWRY, Alaskan Blooms, said that she strongly objects to
the appointment of a [marijuana] prohibitionist to the MCB. She
stated that Vivian Stiver's misinformation has been the status
quo about cannabis and the industry. She led the effort to ban
cannabis in the Fairbanks North Star Borough (FNSB) and the City
of Fairbanks in 2017, which was soundly defeated by a 70 percent
voter turnout. She said that Ms. Stiver's newfound beliefs in
the marijuana industry are suspect at the very least, if not
even borderline criminal. She has always opposed the cannabis
industry and has worked to shut it down.
2:05:25 PM
MS. LOWRY apologized and asked to strike her denigrating
comments. After numerous attempts to meet with the group "Safe
Neighborhoods," the industry continued to find her unwilling to
review statistics, or question members of the marijuana industry
to become more informed. In closing, she expressed concern that
Ms. Stiver has a moral agenda she seeks to implement via the
MCB.
2:06:03 PM
BRUCE CAMPBELL, representing himself, testified in support of
confirmation of Vivian Stiver to the Marijuana Control Board. He
offered his belief that she would be an excellent representative
for the public seat. He knows Vivian and said she is calm,
thoughtful, well-informed, familiar with the regulatory and
statutory process, listens, and respects the integrity and
opinions of others.
2:07:23 PM
BRUCE SCHULTE, representing himself, said that in 2014 he was
the spokesman for the campaign to regulate marijuana, also known
as Ballot Measure 2. In 2015, he was the spokesman for the
Coalition of Responsible Cannabis Legislation, and in 2015-2016,
he served on the MCB in the seat currently being considered. He
said he is adamantly opposed to Ms. Stiver's appointment.
MR. SCHULTE said he appreciates the efforts she has made on
behalf of her community. However, she has a well-documented
history of actively opposing all cannabis businesses in
Fairbanks and leading efforts to ban the industry. He said it
seems as though this administration is determined to "train
wreck" this industry by appointing known opponents of the
cannabis industry, such as Vivian Stiver, to serve on the board.
He reported that this is a $200 billion industry operated by
hundreds of Alaskan entrepreneurs generating $20-30 million in
state and local revenue. At the same time the legal industry has
substantially diminished the illegal marijuana "black market."
This industry has proven itself worthy of state government
support. However, it continues to struggle through clandestine
efforts to undermine it. The previous public member was
dismissed without explanation in apparent response to a board
action the administration did not support. He urged members to
oppose Vivian Stiver's confirmation.
2:10:15 PM
MICHELLE CLEAVER, Owner, Weed Dudes, said her business has eight
employees. Last month her business provided $1.5 million in
state revenue. She has been involved in other aspects of the
marijuana industry. She expressed concern over the loss of the
two board MCB members currently being replaced. She has made a
substantial financial investment in her business and has relied
on the board to hold the industry together. She related the
board composition and urged members to select an industry board
member to serve on the board. In closing, she said that Vivian
Stiver does not have the right skills to move the board forward.
2:12:33 PM
RYAN TUNSETH, Owner, East Rip, said it seems clear when the MCB
board was established that the intent was to have industry and
the public members well represented. He spoke in opposition to
Vivian Stiver because she is an anti-industry activist. He
offered quotes to illustrate his opposition.
2:15:08 PM
PATRICIA PATTERSON, Owner, High Bush Buds, said she owns two
businesses in the Kenai area. After reviewing Ms. Stiver's
public testimony at meetings, she decided that Vivian Stiver is
not qualified for this job simply because she does not
understand the industry. When she hires her employees at High
Bush Buds, they must understand marijuana strains. However,
until recently, Ms. Stiver did not make the effort to read
regulations, attend MCB meetings, or otherwise educate herself.
She suggested that the state should reopen the seat and find
qualified people to serve.
2:17:53 PM
DOLLYNDA PHELPS, Co-Owner, Peace Frog Botanicals said that
contrary to her testimony today, Ms. Stiver is a staunch
[marijuana] prohibitionist. Her actions speak louder than her
words. She has made two had failed attempts to ban marijuana
facilities in Fairbanks. She opposed nearly every marijuana
license that has come before local government for approval. She
has shared misinformation and lacks the necessary education
about the cannabis industry.
MS. PHELPS said she would prefer to see another industry member
seat on its regulatory board, or the board will be grossly
unbalanced. The board currently has one industry seat filled by
Mick Miller, but the remaining 80 percent of the board members
know little about cannabis or the functionality of the industry.
In closing, she urged the board to deny the appointment of
Vivian Stiver to the MCB.
2:19:47 PM
REBECCA REIN, Houston Collective, stated she runs a small firm
in the cannabis industry and serves as chair of the City of
Houston Planning Commission. As Ms. Stiver stated earlier, she
is just now learning about the cannabis industry. Ms. Stiver
recently visited a legal cannabis business and took a marijuana
handler's course, which means during the years she actively
campaigned against the industry she was uninformed. She urged
members to oppose the confirmation of Vivian Stiver to the MCB.
2:21:12 PM
TYLER SWAN, representing himself, testified in opposition to
Vivian Stiver serving on the MCB because she is a known
prohibitionist of the cannabis industry.
2:22:02 PM
BYON DALTON, representing himself, said that he works in the
industry. He testified in opposition to Vivian Stiver's
appointment to the MCB.
2:22:20 PM
SCOTT GREEMAN, representing himself, testified in opposition to
Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB. Alaskans voted to
legalize marijuana, but Vivian Stiver has always viewed the
marijuana industry in a negative way. He pointed out the
positives he finds in the marijuana industry, including that
family members work together, and it is a growth industry that
provides revenue to the state. He suggested that businesses do
not want someone with prohibitionist beliefs to sit on their
board. He said he supports having a marijuana industry person
serve on the board to help the industry move forward.
2:24:00 PM
CHAIR REINBOLD provided the committee's website for written
testimony: senate.labor.and.commerce@akleg.gov
2:24:35 PM
LYNETTE CLARK, Owner, Mining Our Own Business, stated that she
has a gold mining business. She offered her belief that Vivian
Stiver is a bad choice to serve on the MCB. She said, "She is a
Trojan horse going on that board." She cannot be impartial, has
a history of bias against the marijuana industry, and has
actively fought against it.
MS. CLARK said she does not trust Vivian Stiver to serve on the
board and she absolutely opposes her representation for the
legal marijuana industry. Marijuana businesses contribute
millions in tax dollars of general fund revenue each year. In
closing, she reiterated that she is adamantly opposed to her
confirmation. She suggested a more qualified applicant could be
found.
2:28:20 PM
KIM DUNSHIE-HERNING, representing herself, said she strongly
opposes the confirmation of Vivian Stiver to the MCB. She
acknowledged previous speakers already covered many of the
reasons to oppose her. Basically, she is a known prohibitionist
of the industry, she said. She said that people can pretend they
will be fair and open minded, but at the same time still have an
agenda. She said she views Vivian Stiver as doing this as she
does not understand cannabis nor has ever wanted to learn about
the industry. She related her understanding that what Vivian
Stiver believes about the industry is false and she has spread
misinformation. She said that more qualified people could be
selected to serve on the MCB, and she hopes that Vivian Stiver
will not be confirmed.
2:30:38 PM
JOESPH EICKHOLT, Owner, Alaska Beasty Buds, said he is
testifying in opposition to the appointment of Vivian Stiver to
the MCB. He said that Vivian Stiver is a known [marijuana]
prohibitionist and her stance has always been "anti-marijuana."
She would not be good for the industry since she only represents
the minority of the public that chose not to legalize marijuana.
2:31:35 PM
LINDEN ANSON, Owner, Alaskan Blooms, stated that he is
testifying in opposition to Vivian Stiver's appointment. She is
a marijuana] prohibitionist who has only recently informed
herself about the industry. Her actions speak louder than her
words and she is not the right fit for the industry. He
expressed concern that currently only one industry person serves
on the board. He expressed further concern that she would hinder
growth of the marijuana business, one that provides substantial
tax revenue to the state. He said, "I would just like my voice
heard. Hey, this is our industry; this is our life. Please don't
put somebody in there that's going to ruin this for me." His
life savings are tied up in his business, he said.
2:33:56 PM
JUDY ELEDGE, representing herself, said that she fully supports
Vivian Stiver to serve on the MCB. Although Alaska voted to
legalize marijuana, many Alaskans did not, and these people have
grave concerns about the law and its effect on Alaskans. She
would like the board to be balanced to ensure fairness in the
decision-making process. She emphasized her belief that someone
who opposes the industry can still provide a valuable
perspective. She said that she has known Vivian Stiver for many
years and has served in different organizations with her. She
said Vivian Stiver is a fair, well-educated, and rational
person. She offered her belief that she would represent the MCB
in a professional manner.
2:35:47 PM
CHELSEA FOSTER, representing herself, said she previously spoke
with Vivian Stiver about her appointment. She spread
misinformation during her failed attempt to oppose the marijuana
industry and has failed to learn about the industry. The
marijuana industry wants someone with broad knowledge of
cannabis to serve on the MCB, not someone who is a na?ve
cannabis prohibitionist. She urged members not to confirm Vivian
Stiver. She also recommended several qualified people to serve
on the MCB, including Keith Griffith, Kenai, Tina Smith,
Wasilla, and Kim Kole, Anchorage.
2:37:36 PM
BENJAMEN WILCOX, representing himself, said that he and his
partner co-own two Juneau cannabis businesses with a statewide
distribution. He said, "No one is happy with this. No one
believes this is a change of heart." He asked whether their
constituents would believe them if they completely reversed
their lifelong beliefs. He said that a vote for Vivian Stiver is
a vote to bolster and reinvigorate the marijuana black market.
It would cause stagnation in a rapidly-growing wholly-Alaskan
owned industry. It would also adversely impact Alaska's tax
revenue, result in hundreds or thousands of industry job losses,
and limit consumer access to safe and tested cannabis products.
He also said that a vote for Vivian Stiver represents a vote
against the hard work that businesses and the legislature have
put in to help establish the workable and prosperous marijuana
industry.
2:39:21 PM
At-ease.
2:39:31 PM
CHAIR REINBOLD reconvened the meeting.
2:39:33 PM
CALEB SAUNDERS, Chief Executive Officer, Green Jar, stated that
he is one of the owners of a cannabis business, Green Jar. He
said he opposes Vivian Stiver's confirmation to the MCB. He said
that she has been vying for the industry/public seat. However,
she does not represent a good portion of the public that
supported legalization of marijuana. He said that Vivian Stiver
has publicly stated that problems have not stemmed from the
marijuana industry, yet she seems to imply that the work done
thus far is biased and forgot to include the public. This could
not be farther from the truth, he said.
He has fully participated in the industry, first as a member of
the public and later as a licensee. He has attended or
participated telephonically at every MCB meeting. He stated that
public safety and public health has been considered throughout
the regulatory process. His business is comprised of owners,
employees, and customers. In his view, Vivian Stiver does not
represent his customers or the large portion of the public.
Instead, she represents industry prohibitionists, he said.
2:41:48 PM
LEIF ABEL, Vice President, Alaska Marijuana Industry
Association; Founder, Greatland Ganja, stated that he is opposed
to Vivian Stiver's appointment to the industry/public seat on
the MCB. He said it could kill the revenue stream for state
government. He has earned the Department of Revenue (DOR) over
$12 million in 2018 alone, he said. He stressed the importance
of diversifying Alaska's economy and jobs. He said, "Vivian
Stiver is an abject prohibitionist. She has no good role or
genuine reason to be on the MCB."
He characterized the industry as a compliant and vibrant one.
According to Credit Union 1, the industry produced over $200
million for the state's economy last year. He reported that the
industry provides over 700 jobs in Kenai, and his Kasilof
business provides jobs for 18 employees. He said, "These are
families we employ, families I'm responsible for." He
highlighted that his employees have worker's compensation
insurance and work in clean, Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) approved, fire-marshal permitted
facilities.
MR. ABEL asked members to protect local jobs and the families
who are employed by the industry by denying Governor Dunleavy's
appointment of Vivian Stiver to the MCB, that she lacks
knowledge about the cannabis industry, and she should not serve
on a quasi-judicial board that will make important decisions.
Instead, an industry person should be appointed. He cautioned
that a prohibitionist's actions against the marijuana industry
could bolster black market sales, increase crime, and endanger
public safety. He pointed out that legalized industry removes
minors' access to marijuana.
2:44:24 PM
DOUG ANDERSON, Odin's Wagon, said he is one of four members of
Odin's Wagon in Kasilof. This business has a standard
cultivation license from the state. All of his members do not
support Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB, he said. Based
on her past behavior, she would have a negative effect on the
development of the responsible marijuana industry in Alaska. He
offered his belief that she cannot be impartial. He heard Vivian
Stiver mention that marijuana businesses are thriving; however,
from his perspective their existence is precarious at best and
many marijuana businesses have gone out of business. He
expressed concern that her presence could upset the balance
needed to adopt safe and successful regulation in Alaska.
2:45:49 PM
NATHAN DAVIS, representing himself, stated he is with Green
Thumb Garden Center, a lighting supply. He said that he strongly
opposes the appointment of Vivian Stiver to the MCB. He has
personally interacted with her, he said. He noted that she was
the person at the front of the line trying to ban cannabis
throughout Fairbanks. He expressed concern that she may now
regulate the industry. He urged members to oppose the
appointment.
2:46:44 PM
LISA COATES, Owner, Urban Extracts, stated her business is a
marijuana products manufacturer in Kenai. She said she is
opposed to Ms. Stiver being on the MCB because she cannot be
unbiased. She expressed concern that while Vivian Stiver
protested against the industry, she has only recently begun to
learn about the industry. After she was appointed by the
governor, she changed her views, stating she is open to the
industry. She indicated it is time for a member of the public to
serve. If so, a cannabis consumer should serve instead, she
said. She reported that she reviewed other board memberships for
public participation and discovered that all members of the
Board of Game are involved in the industry in some manner.
She said, "It's absurd. Vivian Stiver touts today how she is
unbiased, but she was so opposed to it, and her past actions
against the industry should weigh heavier than her talk. She's
just not wired that way and plain and simply not fit for a seat
at the table." The world is changing and becoming more open to
cannabis, she said. Alaska can recognize this and grow its
economy, or it can stifle the industry.
MS. COATES related that until now, she has always been an
employee, but she retired from her job and became an owner. She
has invested a lot of money in this business and it is scary to
think that someone like Vivian Stiver could completely collapse
her dream.
2:49:31 PM
COLE HOLLISTER, Chairman, Alaska Cannabis PAC; Co-Owner,
Pakalolo Supply Company, stated that he has a cultivation
facility in Fairbanks with several retail stores. He currently
employs 30 people. He strongly opposes Vivian Stiver serving on
the MCB, he said. He has been involved in the industry from the
beginning and was a candidate for the MCB in its early stages.
He said that Lynette Clark stated it best when she referred to
Vivian Stiver as a Trojan horse. He said that as a senator,
Governor Dunleavy was one of the industry's strongest opponents.
He further stated that by removing Brandon Emmett, one of the
biggest voices from the board, and appointing Vivian Stiver
speaks to his intentions against the industry. He urged members
not to support or confirm Vivian Stiver because she is not
qualified to serve on the MCB.
2:51:37 PM
TREVOR HAYNES, Owner, Good Cannabis, stated his opposition to
the appointment of Vivian Stiver to the MCB. He said that he
supports a fair and balanced MCB. However, Vivian Stiver is not
simply a contrarian voice; she has historically been one of the
worst enemies of the cannabis industry in Alaska. The industry
is in a fledgling state and he is afraid she will do a lot of
damage if she serves on the board. He characterized the MCB's
work as important, that the industry needs strong, effective
regulations to benefit the industry and protect the public
health and safety. He said he did not think she would be an
honest broker of cannabis regulations. He favors board members
who are fair and reasonable, with knowledge about the industry.
She cannot bring a balanced approach to the board, he said. He
urged members to vote against her nomination.
2:53:26 PM
KATHRYN STASKON, Owner, Peninsula Botanicals, testified in
opposition to Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB. She agreed
with many testifiers. She offered her belief that Vivian
Stiver's appointment would represent regression and not
progress. The industry is thriving, supporting Alaskans,
communities, and revenue to help the state. She expressed
concern that if Vivian Stiver serves on the board, it would only
hurt the industry and cannabis businesses.
2:54:34 PM
JIM DYER, Co-Owner, JKD Brands LLC, stated that he and his wife
own a business that specializes in labeling cannabis to ensure
regulatory compliance in Alaska. He expressed his opposition to
Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB. She is a known cannabis
prohibitionist, who strongly opposes the legal marijuana
industry, he said. He expressed concern that removal of Jeff
Ankerfelt and Brandon Emmett by the governor represent backward
steps, against the will of the people of Alaska. He said that
the industry has created about 1,000 jobs statewide. It is the
only industry that is 100-percent owned by Alaskans. The
industry has helped diversify the economy and legalized
marijuana is an asset to the state. He related that he, his
wife, and daughter are gainfully employed in a successful
ancillary business that employs 17 people. He urged members not
to confirm Vivian Stiver and offered his belief that Caleb
Saunders would be a good choice for someone to serve on the MCB.
2:57:19 PM
DWIGHT HAAK, representing himself, stated his opposition to
Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB. He related a lengthy,
personal scenario describing how his business and credit were
destroyed. Although the court later vindicated him, the damage
was already done. He said he knows what prohibitionists like Ms.
Stiver can do and she should not serve on the board. In closing
he said he felt it would be unethical for her to serve on the
MCB.
2:59:46 PM
KERBY COMAN, Owner, Green Degree, Rosebuds LLC, referred to AS
17.38.010 (b), which read as follows:
(b) In the interest of the health and public safety of
our citizenry, the people of the state of Alaska
further find and declare that the production and sale
of marijuana should be regulated so that
(1) individuals will have to show proof of age
before purchasing marijuana;
(2) legitimate, taxpaying business people, and
not criminal actors, will conduct sales of marijuana;
and
(3) marijuana sold by regulated businesses will
be labeled and subject to additional regulations to
ensure that consumers are informed and protected.
MR. COMAN interpreted this language to mean that this board's
purpose is to inform and protect the public. He paraphrased
Vivian Stiver's statement that the benefits derived from medical
marijuana are "good." However, marijuana businesses are strictly
prohibited from purporting that marijuana has any medical
benefits, he said. He said this supports her lack of knowledge
about the industry. He stated his strong opposition to Vivian
Stiver's appointment to the MCB, that she is ill informed and
unfit to serve on the board.
3:01:56 PM
SHANE DEVAUGHN, representing himself, testified in opposition to
Vivian Stiver. He said he finds that she is just now beginning
to educate herself on marijuana is unacceptable. He said that
she will only hurt the industry and is a bad choice to serve on
the MCB.
3:02:45 PM
JOSHUA COBIN, representing himself, stated that he works for
Farmer Jacks, [a marijuana cultivation facility]. He is a 20-
year veteran of the cannabis industry, and admitted he
previously was involved in black market activities. He said he
initially did not support legalization of marijuana. However, he
became licensed. He now considers that his license is a pact
with the state, which includes operating under his license,
paying state taxes, and following the rules. He said that
appointing a [cannabis] prohibitionist to a board that oversees
the industry is not part of the deal. He urged members not to
support Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB.
3:03:41 PM
EDITH VON WELTIN, Manager, Alaska Growth, a standard marijuana
cultivation facility, stated her strong opposition to Vivian
Stiver's appointment to the MCB. She said she felt embarrassed
that anyone with as little education about the industry would be
nominated to serve on the board. She wondered if it is
indicative of the governor's intent to close down the industry.
In closing, she reiterated that she is opposed to the
appointment.
3:04:55 PM
TERRENCE ROBBINS, representing himself, stated his support for
Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB. He said he formerly
served as director of the Drug-Fee Communities Support Project
program. One of its goals is to reduce youth marijuana use so he
has closely followed the MCB and its regulatory process. He said
he finds it upsetting to watch a board that is effectively
controlled by the industry, dismiss public safety and health
issues and best practices, for example, to help reduce youth
marijuana use. Under the marijuana industry-controlled MCB, by
regulation, the industry allowed unlimited advertising,
substandard testing, and on-site consumption in public places.
Although the regulations prohibited the sale of familiar food,
drink or candy, the approved list included these items.
Concentrates used in e-cigarettes and cigarette JUULs are
difficult for parents, teachers, and law enforcement to detect,
but the JUULs can easily be converted to marijuana devices. He
also related a few marijuana health risks. He said the MCB is
not a Board of Directors for marijuana companies. It is supposed
to protect the public and he said he believes that Vivian Stiver
can help.
3:07:12 PM
ELIZABETH HOLM, representing herself, expressed concern that
testifiers are accusing Vivian Stiver of not being well educated
on the marijuana industry. She said she finds these testifiers'
tactics to be a form of intimidation. She said marijuana
activists sometimes mob the Fairbanks local government meetings
and mock people. She suggested people should listen to the
Fairbanks North Star Borough audio for proof. She offered her
personal experiences with some activists who gave her business
poor ratings. She said that some people are afraid to contact
the MCB with their concerns due to fear. She said that Vivian
Stiver has been educated on marijuana from the start. She
surmised that Vivian Stiver has researched Colorado's and
Washington's experience with legalized marijuana and that likely
influenced her anti-marijuana, prohibitionist viewpoint. The
state needs a well-rounded Alaskan to serve on the board who
understands the pros and cons of the industry, she said. In
closing, she urged members to support Vivian Stiver's
confirmation.
3:10:09 PM
AARON RALPH, Owner, Alaska Cannabis Exchange; Board Member,
Anchorage Cannabis Business Association, stated the
[association's] firm disapproval of the confirmation of Vivian
Stiver to the MCB.
3:10:46 PM
CHASE AMADOR, Employee, East Rip, stated his opposition to
Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB.
3:11:25 PM
KIM KOLE, Owner, Raspberry Roots; Secretary, Alaska Marijuana
Association, emphasized the importance of industry participation
on the MCB by someone with firsthand knowledge to ensure that
the regulations are common-sense and practical. She argued
against putting someone on the MCB who only recently learned the
barest minimum about the industry. While she agreed the
marijuana handler's course is useful to provide knowledge, it
does not provide in-depth knowledge for someone who will create
and adjust regulations that can affect the long-term strength of
the industry. The board must be able to anticipate unintended
consequence to the industry, she said.
MS. KOLE said that one way to take down an industry that has
survived three separate public votes is to try to dismantle it
from the inside. Actions speak louder than words, she said. She
pointed out that Vivian Stiver led two ballot measures in
Fairbanks. She has made ignorant comments about the benefits,
regulations, and sales of cannabis. The industry/public seat was
created because at its inception, no one could qualify for the
industry seat and not because the seat was meant to segue to a
public seat as Vivian Stiver implied. The Alcohol Control Board
has two industry members and the MCB board deserves the same
representation, she said. She stated her opposition to Vivian
Stiver's appointment to the MCB.
3:14:52 PM
EMILY NENON, representing herself, testified in support of
Vivian Stiver. She asked to focus her testimony on process and
not policy outcomes. She referred to the MCB's mission
statement, which is to enforce marijuana commerce laws, and
provide clear consistent standards for licensure to protect the
public from harm. She has attended many MCB meetings in the past
few years and has seen a lack of transparency and clear and
consistent standards in the process. She offered her belief that
Vivian Stiver's skills are exactly what the MCB needs, that her
public process experiences will be a tremendous asset to the
board. She stated that Vivian Stiver has been attacked for
exercising the local option in the ballot initiative, which was
written by industry proponents. Now it is time for the public's
interest to be represented, she said.
3:16:27 PM
LEAH LEVINTON, Co-Owner, Enlighten Alaska, stated her strong
opposition to Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB. She echoed
the testimony of many who testified in opposition to her
appointment. She said the majority of the public supported
legalization of marijuana. She encouraged members to appoint an
unbiased person or someone with industry expertise to serve on
the board.
3:17:31 PM
ANTHONY OLIVIERI, Owner, Matanuska Medicine Women, stated
opposition to Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB since she
lacks the necessary qualifications to serve on the board. He
said she would not be a good fit for the marijuana industry.
3:18:20 PM
LARRY O'KELLEY, representing himself, stated his vehement
opposition to Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB. He said it
is disrespectful to the voters who overwhelmingly support the
cannabis industry, including onsite consumption.
3:19:15 PM
JAMES THORNTON, Owner, Secret Garden Cannabis, said he also
serves on the Executive Board for the Fairview Community
Council. He asked to testify in opposition to Vivian Stiver's
appointment to the MCB. He said that Alaskans overwhelmingly
chose to legalize cannabis in 2014 and despite prohibitionists
and their campaigns have kept it legal. The marijuana industry
deserves a well-balanced and educated board. He urged members to
strongly reconsider this appointment.
3:20:35 PM
MARGUERITA GILBERTSON, Owner, Denali Gold LLC, testified that
she owns a standard marijuana cultivation company. She stated
her opposition to Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB. She is
not qualified to serve on the board and does not represent the
industry, she said.
3:21:21 PM
KATIE GOOD, representing herself, said her husband is the head
cultivator for Greatful Bud, LLC. She stated her opposition to
Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB.
3:22:19 PM
EVELYN REICH, Owner, Down to Earth Farms, stated her opposition
to Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB. She said she agrees
with others who testified against the appointment.
3:22:53 PM
ED MARTIN, representing himself, stated that other
prohibitionists have served on the board. He argued against
appointing anyone who opposes the legalization of marijuana to
serve on the board since it makes it difficult to regulate the
industry. The marijuana industry supports government, he said.
He expressed concern over the vetting process and any violation
of his civil liberties.
3:24:43 PM
CHASE GRIFFITH, Co-Owner, Permafrost Distributors; President,
Kenai Peninsula Alaska Marijuana Industry Association (KPAMIA).
He said that he is very involved in the cannabis community. He
spoke in opposition to anyone who is opposed to cannabis serving
on the board. He is doing everything possible to create
transparency between the market, the industry, and the state, he
said.
3:25:49 PM
MARK THEILLER, Co-Founder, Red Run Cannabis, said that he is a
legally licensed marijuana retail and cultivator. He said he
hoped to obtain a third manufacturer's license. He related that
others have covered the industry's statistics and viewpoint. He
related his personal viewpoint, that he employs ten people,
eight of whom have been with him since the beginning. He said
that he is an entrepreneur and small business owner who works to
expand the marijuana industry's growth. He said his employees
earn a livable wage and depend on this industry's success. This
is not an ideological competition but is something that affects
"real lives and real families." He has previously served on the
Marijuana Task Force with another prohibitionist. He said that
person did not "round out" the discussion but created lag and
dysfunction that resulted in wasted time and money. He asked
members to appoint someone who is critical, capable, and
experienced to some degree. He said that Vivian Stiver clearly
does not meet the mark.
3:28:24 PM
CHAIR REINBOLD asked for written testimony.
3:28:40 PM
VICTORIA DAVIS, representing herself, said that she is a
cannabis advocate. She testified in opposition to Vivian Stiver
being appointed to the MCB. She has rallied others to vote
against cannabis and is not informed about the cannabis
industry. She expressed concern that Vivian Stiver is a business
owner who has been willing to put other people's businesses at
risk, based solely on emotion. It is important to have board
members who understand the cannabis industry, she said.
3:30:29 PM
SHOSHANA KUN, representing herself, stated her opposition to
Vivian Stiver's appointment to the MCB. She stated that the
mission of the board is to protect the public from harm. She
said she has attended the MCB's meetings and in her view, the
board has been careful to listen to the public's concern. She
expressed concern that Vivian Stiver's bias against the industry
could have a negative impact on the marijuana industry. She
related that the marijuana tax revenue in Fairbanks raises
$800,000, which helps provide emergency services to the
community.
3:32:08 PM
HILDA LESTRON, representing herself, said she strongly opposes
any marijuana prohibitionist, such as Vivian Stiver, to serve on
the MCB. She urged members not to confirm her appointment to the
board.
3:32:57 PM
JAMIE LETTERMAN, Owner, ThunderCloud9, stated she owns two
cannabis businesses. She expressed her opposition to Vivian
Stiver's appointment to the MCB. She has served on numerous
boards over the years. Although it is good to have a devil's
advocate serve on a board, it is also good to have someone who
believes wholeheartedly in the board's mission.
3:33:33 PM
CHAIR REINBOLD, after first determining no one wished to
testify, closed public testimony on the confirmation hearing for
Vivian Stiver, appointee to the Marijuana Control Board.
She said that any written testimony that has been received at
senate.labor.and.commerce@ak.leg will be incorporated into the
record. She asked Ms. Stiver whether she had any closing
comments.
3:34:15 PM
MS. STIVER made the following closing remarks:
We have heard some things and some terms used
consistently and throughout this hearing today, which
I believe are words that tend to incite a lot of fear.
I am not a prohibitionist. I absolutely did have a
position. I expected our city and borough to be ready
for the industry and they were not. I also respect the
fact that people do distrust me because they had
financial interests. They had money laid out and I do
understand that.
Education: I was well on top of this when it started.
I studied Washington's law, Colorado's law. I looked
at products in Colorado. I studied the impacts in
Colorado. And yes, things have changed over time, but
during that initiative I used current information
backed up with sources. I never show up without my
sources and copies for members of councils or
assemblies. So, I want to thank you for your time and
patience and thank everyone for putting in their
thoughts. I know this is difficult, but I am confident
that I will work well with everyone, all the
stakeholders and the community, to make sure there's
success for everyone.
3:35:42 PM
CHAIR REINBOLD stated that all written testimony to date will be
included as part of the official record.
3:36:13 PM
CHAIR REINBOLD stated that in accordance with AS 39.05.080, the
Senate Labor and Commerce Standing Committee reviewed the
following and recommends the appointments be forwarded to a
joint session for consideration:
Marijuana Control Board
Vivian Stiver - Fairbanks
CHAIR REINBOLD reminded members that signing the reports
regarding appointments to boards and commissions in no way
reflects individual members' approval or disapproval of the
appointees; the nominations are merely forwarded to the full
legislature for confirmation or rejection.
3:36:42 PM
CHAIR REINBOLD gave upcoming committee announcements.
3:37:32 PM
There being no further business to come before the committee,
Chair Reinbold adjourned the Senate Labor and Commerce Standing
Committee meeting at 3:37 p.m.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| L&C Alcoholic Beverage Control Board Resume - Cross.pdf |
SL&C 2/12/2019 1:30:00 PM |
Governor's Appointees to Boards and Commissions |
| L&C Marijuana Control Board Resume - Jaime.pdf |
SL&C 2/12/2019 1:30:00 PM |
Governor's Appointees to Boards and Commissions |
| L&C Marijuana Control Board Resume - Stiver.pdf |
SL&C 2/12/2019 1:30:00 PM |
Governor's Appointees to Boards and Commissions |
| 02.12.19 Governor's Appointees to Marijuana Control Board - Support.pdf |
SL&C 2/12/2019 1:30:00 PM |
|
| 02.12.19 - Governor's Appointees Marijuana Control Board - Opposition.pdf |
SL&C 2/12/2019 1:30:00 PM |
|
| 02.12.19 Governor's Appointees to Marijuana Control Board - Support (2).pdf |
SL&C 2/12/2019 1:30:00 PM |
|
| 02.12.19 Governor's Appointees Marijuana Control Board Opposition (2).pdf |
SL&C 2/12/2019 1:30:00 PM |