Tribes Approve Resolution To Explore Cannabis
The Fort Peck Tribal Executive Board passed by a 7-2 margin a resolution to explore the exploration and development of a tribal cannabis regulatory framework and economic initiative.
The decision made on Monday includes having the economic development committee conduct a feasibility study and comprehensive business plan within 30 days regarding viable business models, investment options and implementation plans. The resolution notes the tribes seek to explore opportunities for economic development, public health and revenue generation through the lawful regulation, licensing and commercial development of cannabis and cannabis derived products under tribal law.
TED members Stacey Summers, Carolyn Brugh and Roxanne Gourneau recently attended an alternate medicine conference held in New Town, N.D.
Gourneau said the North Dakota’s group’s goals included being very highly regulated. She says she is a proponent of medicinal cannabis in order to help people suffering with health issues and depression. “It’s about the consumers, and consumers are people,” Gourneau said.
The vote came after about a halfhour of discussion among the board members.
TEB member Jestin Dupree pointed out that the area already deals with substance abuse problems. He said some departments already need grant money in order to help residents struggling with addiction.
“To me, this gives the wrong message to our kids at this moment,” Dupree said.
TEB member Ben Johnson argued that cannabis is a good way for the tribes to add money and to make sure regulations are done the right way.
TEB member Rita Weeks also mentioned the importance of having strong regulatory laws and that the community needs to be involved in the process.
“It’s here and is going to stay here,” Weeks said of cannabis. “Let’s make sure we regulate it well enough.”
Gourneau reminded the board that the resolution is only to explore options. She feels that data gathered will lead to correct decisions in the future. She feels it’s possible to add between 100-500 new jobs in areas such as planting, harvesting and security.
TEB member Bryce Kirk expressed his concerns for the area’s children. He said food is taken away from children because parents are choosing marijuana instead of feeding their kids.
“A lot of lives are put off track because of marijuana,” Kirk said. “Kids are hungry, I’m telling you. This happens every day. Parents choose this instead of bread and baloney.”
TEB member Lawrence Hamilton questioned if 30 days for the study is long enough and wondered about the cost for a feasibility study. TEB member Terry Rattling Thunder Sr. said there are pros and cons regarding the issue. He favored the resolution because there’s a need to capture some of the money that the current dispensaries are making.
“It’s going to get tougher as we go down the line from here,” Rattling Thunder said of the tribes’ finances.
