DIZPOT and ADA Secure a Landmark Victory for Consumer Safety in Arizona, but There is Still More Work to Do

The Arizona Dispensaries Association 's (ADA) mission is to advocate for safe cannabis use. "Safety is the seed from which all our initiatives grow," echoes DIZPOT, a cannabis packaging company renowned for its commitment to quality and integrity. The current regulated marketplace offers a safe place for cannabis products to be sold to consumers following safe testing and compliance guidelines, which protects all consumers from harmful products. DIZPOT’s position is that they support the current established regulated marketplace because it is tested, tried, and effective. ?

In a groundbreaking triumph for consumer protection and ethical cannabis use, DIZPOT, a compliant cannabis packaging company, together with the ADA, Giving Tree Dispensary , Arizona Natural Concepts , Noble Herb Dispensary alongside other legal license holders and supporters have collectively demonstrated united advocacy for ethical management within the cannabis sector, and have successfully achieved the opposition of House Bill 2679. The bill's rejection in Arizona's House Regulatory Committee signals a pivotal moment for the integrity of the cannabis market, and the safety of its consumers.?

The discourse now shifts to the Arizona Senate's contemplation of SB1186—a proposed measure bearing close resemblance to the contested House Bill. DIZPOT firmly opposes SB1186 as well, advocating for a resolution that imposes stringent controls over all cannabis products, particularly synthetic variants, to assure consumer protection from harmful substances. This engagement comes amidst warnings from health professionals about the dangers of synthetic cannabinoids, often presented as safe and targeted toward younger demographics through deceptive candy-like packaging. In the wake of alarming statistics from Banner Poison and Drug Information Center, revealing a rise in children's exposure to cannabis, the emphasis on the importance of maintaining rigorous market standards has never been stronger.

"Arizona Dispensaries Association works?with more than 80% of all license holders in the state to advocate for safe use. Unregulated intoxicating hemp products?are not lab tested or overseen by the state. We continue to educate legislators and consumers?on the dangers of these products, and data from both the Phoenix and Tucson Arizona Drug and Poison?Centers proves it," said Ann Torrez , executive director of the Arizona Dispensaries Association.

Synthetic cannabinoids have often been associated with unpredictable and harmful effects and the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill? led to a gray area in regulation, particularly regarding the status of Delta-8 THC. DIZPOT's advocacy has been a clear call to rein in these ambiguities and ensure only products that are clean testing and regulated reach the public.

The ADA spearheading this monumental opposition has inspired support from many other sectors, including, but not limited to health advocates such as Dr. Chris Hudalla, Founder & Chief Scientific Officer of ProVerde Laboratories , and Chris Lindsey, The American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp , Director of State Advocacy and Public Policy. Their tireless efforts to prioritize consumer safety and maintain rigorous testing standards in the market have not gone unnoticed. The united front presented by all opposing parties has been instrumental in conveying to policymakers the risks of allowing synthesized cannabinoids to be sold without proper regulation.

DIZPOT's commitment to safety and quality, coupled with their business acumen, has cemented their stance. "We firmly believe that cannabis should be regulated to safeguard our communities while respecting the right of adults to responsibly enjoy its benefits,” CEO and co-founder of DIZPOT John Hartsell remarked. "This bill posed a dire threat to consumer health and to the reputation of the industry we’re all working so hard to continue to strengthen and build."

The collective voice and unyielding dedication of DIZPOT, the ADA, and all who joined in the advocacy against HB 2679 has truly made a difference. Now to continue these efforts in protecting the cannabis community, consumers, and children by opposing SB1186.

For more information on how these leaders are advancing safety and ethical practices in the cannabis industry, call (602) 795-4499.