Applications cost money: most applicants, excluding the Pigford License applicants, will pay a nonrefundable application fee of $146,000.
- The second new rule makes it even more expensive for cannabis enterprises to renew their licenses every two years. The renewal cost increased from $60,000 to more than $1 million.
- The high application and renewal fees might sideline small farmers. Only wealthy individuals and groups can apply.
- Some insiders advocate for an open market that will not obstruct entrance to the market.
Republican politicians want to reform the entire process. Senator Joe Gruters, R-Sarasota, reckons the market would be well-served by increased competition.
- Some believe an application process based on an artificial designation like ‘market need’ is ripe for abuse. The state can merely determine that no need exists. It is easy for Florida not to issue licenses if that is their agenda.
- Some believe that increasing applications signal more competition, which will benefit patients.
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