OLCC Rules Adjusted for Pesticide Testing of Usable Marijuana

With the expanded testing capacity in place, sampling and testing procedure reverts to 100 percent batch testing.


Beginning August 30, 2017, every batch of usable marijuana (flower and leaves) must be tested directly for pesticides according to the Oregon Health Authority’s testing rules in order to be compliant. This includes untested product that was collected for sampling prior to August 30, according to a press release.

Some temporary rules regarding the sampling and testing of usable marijuana have expired, and Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) Recreational Marijuana Program licensees are required to follow updated OLCC and Oregon Health Authority rules.

This reminder follows an August 11, 2017 OLCC Compliance Bulletin CE2017-09 sent to Recreational Marijuana Program producer and laboratory licensees explaining the rules adjustment. The bulletin is also posted on the OLCC Recreational Marijuana Program website.

The Oregon Liquor Control Commission issued an order to limit pesticide testing of usable marijuana meant for retail sale to consumers on October 3, 2016. At that time, OLCC staff found that there was insufficient lab capacity for 100-percent batch testing of usable marijuana for pesticides. On March 3, 2016, the Commission made a similar determination and extended temporary rules to allow for the continued practice of testing one-third of the batches.

The Commission recently examined the issue and determined that limited lab capacity issues that existed in October of 2016 have been mitigated. Lab testing capacity has increased to ensure a steady flow of product through the supply chain. Last October, fewer than five labs were accredited to test for pesticides; today there is more than double the capacity. Additionally, the Oregon Health Authority’s most recent testing rules increased by 50% the amount of usable marijuana that can be tested together in a batch.

More information can be found on the OHA medical marijuana website.

The Commission will continue to monitor market flow and respond to any issues that arise with the expiration of the temporary rule.

If you have questions please contact the OLCC Recreational Marijuana Program at [email protected].
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