Santa Barbara County has re -assigned cannabist money to help ice -independent families

When cannabis tax revenue decreases, officials from the Santa Barbara district dissolved their cannabis enforcement unit and redirected the financing to support families affected by ice attacks.

From boom to the bust in County cannabis tax

Once in 2020–21 of $ 15.7 million, cannabist tax revenues in Santa Barbara County dropped to only 5.4 million dollars in 2024 to 255. The steep decline reflects nationwide trends – where inactive cannabis licenses are now active.

Dissolution of the specialized enforcement unit

The district quoted the high overhead – like an office attendant contract of 19,185 US dollars per month – its committed cannabis enforcement team. The MPs were assigned to broader narcotics and license scenarios. Sheriff Bill Brown confirmed that the special team is no longer.

A shift in budget priorities

The supervisory authorities approved the reform of the former cannabis tax money of $ 240,000 to the legal defense center. This non -profit organization offers families that are affected by ice attacks, legal and psychological health aids that deal with urgent local needs such as the trauma of children.

Balancing by enforcing community care

Sheriff Brown emphasized that persistent illegal growth and other drug trafficking justify the continued enforcement in a new structure. The supervisor Laura Capps countered and called for efficiency and accountability from previous cannabis revenue expenses.

Changed cannabis landscape are reflected

Since many producers who disappear and the income disappear, civil servants say that it is time to rethink the enforcement infrastructure. The pivot point for the support of the community reflects both the economic realities of the industry and the direct needs in need of protection.