California Board of Equalization Members Weigh in on Pending Medical Marijuana Legislation
On March 30, 2016 the California Board of Equalization (BOE) held a public discussion regarding pending medical marijuana legislations SB 987 and AB 2243. Representing the legislature was Senator Mike McGuire’s Chief of Staff, Jason Liles. The central focus of the discussion was SB 987’s introduction of a 15% tax on sales of medical marijuana that would be collected by retailers. The anticipated revenue to be generated by this tax is estimated to be $251 million dollars with the caveat that retailers would be in 100% compliance. The bill is set to go into effect on January 1, 2018.