Abrupt Conclusion to Senate Economic Development Committee Meeting Due to Unexpected Absences

Wednesday witnessed an early adjournment of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Agriculture, concluding substantially ahead of schedule due to unforeseen absences by several key testifiers.

A significant moment occurred when Agriculture Commissioner Louis Petersen was unable to attend his 2:30 appointment, citing urgent matters through a text to Senator Javan James, the committee’s chair. This development led to the postponement of a crucial update from the V.I. Port Authority and prompted Senator James to call off the meeting early.

The day also saw challenges during discussions on the status of the Office of Cannabis Regulations and the progress in implementing Act 8680, including updates on licensing processes for the cannabis sector. Despite the presence of two Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs representatives ready to provide their insights, the absence of Cannabis Advisory Board Chair Catherine Kean hindered the committee’s ability to fully understand the industry’s advancements. Kean, expected to share vital information, did not attend and provided no explanation for her absence, as noted by the legislative clerk.

The gap left by the recent resignation of Hannah Carty, the former Executive Director of the Office of Cannabis Regulations, compounded the difficulties, leaving the office without staff. Lorraine Fredericks, DLCA’s Director of Business and Administration, underscored this point to the legislators, indicating a current lack of personnel within the Office of Cannabis Regulations.

However, there was a glimmer of progress as Kean announced the selection of a new executive director for the office on Tuesday. Horace Graham, DLCA assistant commissioner, further elaborated that efforts are underway to fill other vacant positions within the office, with advertisements posted and applications received, though final decisions are pending. The DLCA continues to oversee human resource functions for the Office of Cannabis Regulation amidst these transitions.

Senator Marvin Blyden expressed concerns regarding the process for conducting interviews for these positions, especially in light of recent staff departures, signaling the need for clarity and action in filling these crucial roles to ensure the continued development and regulation of the cannabis industry in the Virgin Islands.