California’s Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) is proposing standardized lab testing methods in an effort to create uniformity across the state.

Senate Bill 544 would require DCC to establish standardized cannabinoid testing methods by Jan. 1, 2023, according to a release from DCC.

Per the Medicinal and Adult Use Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act, all cannabis products in California must be tested by a licensed cannabis testing laboratory prior to sale to ensure they are free of harmful contaminants including molds, pesticides and residual solvents, and are labeled with accurate cannabinoid content and information.

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“One of the challenges we face in regulating an industry that is not federally recognized is the lack of standardized testing and validated methods for testing,” said DCC Director Nicole Elliott. “Individual, licensed laboratories use different methods which may produce inconsistent results and inaccurate data on cannabis cannabinoid content. DCC is working to change that so there is greater integrity in the market, accurate information for consumers, and confidence among stakeholders.”

According to DCC, the proposed regulations will help the department educate licensees while more effectively regulating licensed testing laboratories throughout California.

DCC is accepting public comments regarding the proposed regulations, with a deadline of 5 p.m. CST on Aug. 2. The public may submit comments by mail (DCC Legal Affairs Division, 2920 Kilgore Road, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670) or by email (publiccomment@cannabis.ca.gov). Comments may also be submitted verbally at the public comment hearing on Aug. 1 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

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“These standards build upon existing standards for testing laboratories by requiring them to utilize only cannabinoid testing methods designated by DCC,” Elliott said. “The ultimate goal is protecting public health and safety by providing consumers accurate and consistent information on the cannabis they purchase.”