OLCC Escalates Minor Decoy Activity in Effort to Increase Compliance

September 16, 2022

Ferdinand Ruplin and Yalda Bahramian - Tonkon Torp LLP

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Oregon

Oregon cannabis retailers should be on high alert as OLCC continues to ramp up MDOs (Minor Decoy Operations) statewide. Partnered with local law enforcement agencies, OLCC sends minors age 16-18 to make a purchase. If a prohibited sale occurs, both the individual permitee and the licensee may face fines and suspension. It may also trigger a broader compliance investigation.

OLCC paused MDOs during the COVID-19 pandemic, but operations resumed in May and OLCC has been working to expand MDOs and compliance enforcement ever since. According to multiple inspectors, OLCC has dozens of MDOs planned for the near future.

A recent MDO targeting Medford retailers yielded a 67% compliance rate, substantially lower than OLCC’s 90% target. To reach that target, OLCC plans to continue expanding the MDO program and Commissioners are considering more severe penalties for permittees and licensees who sell to minors.

OLCC offers online resources and free identification checking classes to help licensees improve their compliance practices and reduce the risk of violations. The ID Checking Tip List provided is one practical tool licensees can use to ensure permittees follow proper ID checking practices.

Questions? Please contact Ferdinand Ruplin, or any of the other attorneys in Tonkon Torp’s Cannabis Industry Group. This update is prepared for the general information of our clients and friends. It should not be regarded as legal advice.

About Tonkon Torp

Tonkon Torp LLP is a leading business and litigation law firm serving public companies, substantial private enterprises, entrepreneurial businesses, and individuals throughout the Northwest. For more information, visit tonkon.com.