Hillsboro auditor questions senator over Senate Bill 56

Dear Senator Steve Huffman,

I am writing to inquire about a particular aspect of Senate Bill 56, which addresses the taxation of adult-use marijuana. I understand that the bill proposes the allocation of marijuana tax revenue to go to the state's general fund. However, I am concerned about this approach and would like to seek clarification on why this decision was made.

Specifically, I am referencing the model established in the previous citizens-initiated law, where marijuana tax revenue is more directly distributed to benefit various programs and initiatives. In this model, the revenue is split in a way that supports the following:

• 36% to the Cannabis Social Equity and Jobs Fund;

• 36% to the Host Community Cannabis Fund;

• 25% to the Substance Abuse and Addiction Fund; and

• 3% to the Division of Cannabis Control and Tax Commissioner Fund.

This approach seems to ensure that the tax revenue is used to directly benefit both the communities most impacted by past marijuana policies and programs aimed at addressing the consequences of substance abuse, as well as benefiting the municipal corporations or townships with such dispensaries. 

Given the potential positive impact that a more diversified allocation model could have on these critical areas, I would appreciate understanding the rationale behind funneling all of the tax revenue into the state’s general fund rather than following a similar distribution model.

Our city has been looking into ways to use these funds to enhance our city parks to better serve our community. 

I look forward to your response and any insights you can provide regarding this matter.

Thank you for your time and attention to this important issue.

Sincerely,


Dawson J. Barreras

Hillsboro City Auditor