A new Oregon bill would create a certification program for cannabis health care technicians and provide financial incentives to marijuana retailers that employ them.
(Photo credit: Brian Breneman).
Filed in February by State Representative Travis Nelson (D) and Senator Lew Frederick (D) House Bill 3790 would require the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) to certify qualified individuals as cannabis health care technicians. In turn, marijuana retailers that hire certified technicians would be eligible for financial support from the OLCC. Today, an “informational meeting” was held by the House Economic Development, Small Business, and Trade Committee.
Proponents of the bill say the goal is to enhance professional standards and expand health-related expertise in Oregon’s cannabis retail sector.
In addition to creating the certification program and financial incentives, HB 3790 directs the OLCC to provide assistance and information on marijuana interstate commerce to qualifying retailers. This provision would take effect only when interstate marijuana commerce is authorized under federal law or tolerated through guidance such as a memorandum from the U.S. Department of Justice.
If passed into law, the bill would take effect on January 1, 2026.
