Mandatory training offered for prospective marijuana social equity program applicants

Only Arizona Department of Health Services instruction meets requirements

Phoenix AZ (August 20, 2021) – Registration is now available for required Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) training for those seeking licenses to own and operate adult-use marijuana establishments under the voter-approved social equity program. 

This free virtual Social Equity Ownership Training will be held live on Sept. 20-21 and then offered as recorded sessions with live Q&A on Oct. 12-13. To offer additional flexibility for prospective applicants, ADHS also will offer computer-based training from mid-October through mid-December.

This ADHS training is the only instruction that meets program requirements for those eligible to seek social equity licenses, and prospective applicants should be wary of other entities that falsely claim to offer approved training. 

For more information on the social equity program and to register for the required training, please visit azdhs.gov/SocialEquity. 

In November 2020, Arizona voters passed Proposition 207, which legalized adult-use marijuana. As part of the ballot measure, the voters directed the state to “promote the ownership and operation of marijuana establishments and marijuana testing facilities by individuals from communities disproportionately impacted by the enforcement of previous marijuana laws.” 

ADHS will accept applications for the social equity ownership program from Dec. 1-14, and a random drawing will be held to award the 26 licenses available. 

The ADHS classes, taught by industry experts, will include two days of content and education focused on a number of aspects of operating an adult-use marijuana business, including legal requirements, business practices, regulatory compliance, and fundraising, as well as marketing and strategic growth.

In addition to these required classes, ADHS will offer one-on-one support and clinics to help potential licensees with the application process and the chance to meet with instructors to get questions answered.