Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05973

Introduced
1/24/19  

Caption

An Act Requiring A Study Of The Feasibility Of Creating A State Bank To Service The Cannabis Industry.

Impact

If implemented, this bill could significantly change the landscape for cannabis-related businesses within the state. By creating a state bank, the government would ensure that cannabis businesses have access to essential financial services, promoting stability and growth within this emerging industry. This could encourage further investment and operational viability for businesses that have historically struggled to find financial support. Moreover, the establishment of a state bank could position the state as a pioneer in not only supporting but also regulating the cannabis financial sector, creating a replicable model for other states to consider.

Summary

House Bill 05973 seeks to mandate a study by the Department of Banking regarding the feasibility of establishing a state bank dedicated to servicing the cannabis industry. The proposal is grounded in the recognition that, despite the growing acceptance and legalization of cannabis in various states, financial institutions often decline to offer banking services to cannabis-related businesses due to federal regulations. The bill aims to explore the potential for a state-operated financial institution to provide necessary banking services such as deposits, loans, and other financial support to cannabis producers, distributors, and retailers.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this bill include concerns about the implications of state involvement in the cannabis industry and the potential risks associated with operating a state bank dedicated to a sector still facing federal scrutiny. Critics may argue that such a bank could expose the state to legal liabilities and financial risks, while supporters contend that it is necessary to cultivate a safe and regulated banking environment for cannabis businesses. As discussions advance, the study mandated by this bill would likely address these points, weighing the benefits of enhanced financial services against the associated challenges of state-level banking regulations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05253

An Act Requiring A Feasibility Study Of Insurance Pooling For Nonprofit Entities.

CT SB00244

An Act Requiring A Study On The Feasibility Of Expanding Access To Respite Services By Pursuing A Family Caregiver Support Benefit Through A Medicaid Demonstration Waiver.

CT SB00158

An Act Concerning A Study Of The Effect Of Background Checks On Defense Industry Employment And A Study Of State Employment Outreach Efforts.

CT HB05255

An Act Requiring A Study Of The Feasibility Of Establishing A Captive Insurance Company To Provide Financial Assistance To Farmers Impacted By The Effects Of Severe Weather.

CT HB05343

An Act Concerning A Study On The Feasibility Of Establishing A Prepaid College Tuition Program.

CT SB00188

An Act Requiring Connecticut Banks To List All Account Holders Or Owners On Periodic Statements.

CT SB00159

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Feasibility Of Developing A Multimodal Transportation Center In The Towns Of Stonington And Groton.

CT SB00424

An Act Reducing The Blood Alcohol Limits For Impaired Driving And Boating And Studying Methods To Detect Cannabis-impaired Driving.

CT SB00267

An Act Requiring A Study Of The Effects Of Short-term Rentals On The Housing Market Of The State.

CT HB05465

An Act Requiring The Insurance Commissioner To Conduct A Study Of Usage-based Automobile Liability Insurance Programs For New Drivers In This State.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.