Calif. DOI clears hurdles for potential licensees with cannabis convictions

“When voters approved Proposition 64, they wanted to clear obstacles for those with prior convictions, and that is what my Department is doing,” said Commissioner Lara in a release. “My Department is committed to creating opportunity for Californians while protecting consumers from fraud and abuse by agents and brokers.” (Photo: Shutterstock)

California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara recently announced that the Department of Insurance will use its discretion in deciding whether to issue licenses to individuals that have cannabis-related convictions.

In support of Proposition 64, the Adult Use of Marijuana Act, which was approved by California voters in 2016, the announcement will clear obstacles for individuals, whose past convictions are eligible to be dismissed or reduced under current California law, to pursue insurance agent, broker, or similar licenses.