Governor Walker Says He Will Keep Alaska’s Marijuana Board Balanced

Following the removal of an Alaska Marijuana Control Board industry expert, Governor Bill Walker promises balance on the board as he searches for a replacement. The governor is currently reviewing applications, and has 30 days from August 2nd to appoint a new member.

Governor Walker said, “No individual (to name at this time), but it will be done within the statutory period of time and my intention is to replace it with an industry person.”

The abrupt removal of Bruce Schulte may signify a shift in the board from its pro-industry approach, reports Newsminer.com. Alaska law says that at least one industry person must be a member of the Marijuana Control Board. The board must also include a public safety member, a public health member, and the final position by a person of the public or marijuana industry member.

Walker also said, “On every board that I’ve done I’ve looked at diversity in every way I can. The marijuana board is a little different, because, for example, it’s very specific. You might find the person that you want but they don’t fit into that particular spot. I know I could do a public person, which makes it a whole lot broader, but I’m not out to change the balance of the board.”