California Seizes More Than $1B Worth of Illegal Cannabis In 13 Months

The California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) says it has seized more than $1 billion of illegal cannabis over the last 13 months. The agency, alongside local, state, and federal law enforcement, has executed 232 search warrants, seized more than a half million pounds of illegal cannabis, and eradicated more than 1.4 million plants, the DCC said in a press release. 

Additionally, the law enforcement actions have led to the discovery of 120 illegal firearms and the seizure of $2.3 million in additional assets.   

“These enforcement activities are important in eliminating unfair competition, protecting natural resources, and safeguarding our communities.. However, this represents only one part of California’s larger strategy to help create a safe, sustainable, and equitable legal cannabis market.” — DCC statement via press release

The DCC said the actions are part of its efforts “to expand access to tested cannabis products for consumers and lower barriers of participation for businesses,” noting that it had recently been allocated $20 million “to grant cities and counties with funding that will support the creation of cannabis retail access in areas that currently do not allow it.” 

According to state data, 56% of California cities and counties do not allow any type of cannabis business (304 of 539) while 61% do not allow any retail cannabis business (330 of 539). Less than half (44%) allow one type of cannabusiness.