Although cannabis businesses cannot avail themselves of the federal relief response to COVID-19, the California state cannabis licensing boards are offering some relief. If your license expires between May 14 and June 30, 2020 you can request a deferment of up to 60 days from renewal fees.

Licensees must submit a written Request for Regulatory Relief to be considered for a license fee deferral. Deferral requests will begin to be accepting immediately. 

Although you can simply write requesting relief there is an optional form which can be filled out to request relief. All requests should be sent by email to MCLS@cdph.ca.gov. If not using the form be sure to include the business name, license, premises address, the length of the deferral request, and the name of the owner submitting the request.

Cannabis businesses may also be able to avail themselves of tax relief. The CDTFA has offered some tax deferrals to businesses.

Visit CA.gov to see the state’s response to COVID-19.