California Regulators Propose Standardized Cannabis Testing Regulations

California regulators are considering regulations to standardize cannabis laboratory testing methods across the state and are currently accepting public comments on the proposals. The Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) said the regulatory package comes amid concerns about “laboratory shopping.” 

Lab shopping is the practice of cannabis businesses taking the product to different labs until it gets the testing result it desires and one of the state’s most prominent cannabis testing laboratories, CannaSafe Labs, cited the practice as the impetus for the closure of its lab. 

In a statement, DCC Director Nicole Elliott, said state cannabis regulators face challenges in testing because cannabis remains federally outlawed.  

“Individual, licensed laboratories use different methods which may produce inconsistent results and inaccurate data on cannabis cannabinoid content. DCC is working to change that so there is greater integrity in the market, accurate information for consumers, and confidence among stakeholders.” — Elliot in a press release 

Last year, state lawmakers passed a bill requiring the DCC to establish standardized cannabinoid test methods by January 1, 2023. Testing is required under the state’s adult-use law.  

“These standards build upon existing standards for testing laboratories by requiring them to utilize only cannabinoid testing methods designated by DCC,” Elliott said in a statement. “The ultimate goal is protecting public health and safety by providing consumers accurate and consistent information on the cannabis they purchase.”  

The California agency is accepting comments until Aug. 5 and an in-person hearing is set for Aug. 1.