Here in Australia we lock up refugees on far away islands and take away their opportunity to participate on even the most basic level of society.
The concept that Australia would allow access to cannabis businesses for all and especially the most recent arrivals to our shores really shows the stark differences between the two societies.
Beginning January 1, 2021, individuals in the following categories who apply for licensure by the Bureau of Cannabis Control may seek an expedited licensure process.
- Refugees pursuant to section 1157 of title 8 of the United States Code;
- Those granted asylum by the Secretary of Homeland Security or the Attorney General of the United States pursuant to section 1158 of title 8 of the United States Code; or,
- Individuals with a special immigrant visa that have been granted a status pursuant to section 1244 of Public Law 110-181, Public Law 109-163, or section 602(b) of title VI of division F of Public Law 111-8.
In order to receive the expedited licensure process, individuals must provide documentation of their refugee, asylee, or special immigrant visa status when submitting their application package. Please note that this does not mean a license must be issued, but simply that the process will be expedited.
Expedited Licensure Process for Refugees,
Asylees, and Holders of Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs)
“California is a greater and more vibrant place because of our immigrant and refugee communities. I thank the Legislature for advancing these policies to support our fellow Californians, no matter where they were born.”
Governor Gavin Newsom
The Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) and its boards and bureaus protect and serve California consumers through the licensure and regulation of 3.9 million licensees in diverse professions and occupations ranging from accountant to physician, security guard to contractor, cemetery to veterinarian, and more.
This page is intended to assist individuals seeking an expedited licensure process as required by Business and Professions Code section 135.4. Beginning January 1, 2021, individuals in the following categories may have their applications expedited:
- Refugees pursuant to section 1157 of title 8 of the United States Code;
- Those granted asylum by the Secretary of Homeland Security or the Attorney General of the United States pursuant to section 1158 of title 8 of the United States Code; or,
- Individuals with a special immigrant visa that have been granted a status pursuant to section 1244 of Public Law 110-181, Public Law 109-163, or section 602(b) of title VI of division F of Public Law 111-8.
In order to receive the expedited licensure process, individuals must provide evidence of their refugee, asylee, or special immigrant visa status when submitting their application package. Documentation below are examples that can be used:
- Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, with an admission class code such as “RE” (Refugee) or “AY” (Asylee) or other information designating the person a refugee or asylee.
- Special immigrant visa that includes the classification codes of “SI” or “SQ.”
- Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551), commonly known as a “Green Card,” with a category designation indicating that the person was admitted as a refugee or asylee.
- An order from a court of competent jurisdiction or other documentary evidence that provides reasonable assurance that the applicant qualifies for expedited licensure.
Failure to provide documentation may result in a delay in expediting the application review.
Please note that this does not mean a license/registration must be issued, but simply that the process will be expedited.
If you have any questions or require further assistance, please contact the relevant licensing board or bureau or email refugee@dca.ca.gov. If you need assistance in a language other than English, language assistance services are available at no cost. Call (833) 498-2006.
The Department of Social Services’ Refugee Resettlement Program assists eligible refugees, asylees, special immigrant visa holders, and other eligible persons to resettle in California. For more information about the program, click here: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/refugee-services.
Also see this piece at CalCoast
California fast tracking cannabis business licenses for refugees
