IN response to a Sept. 2 article published in the Marianas Variety regarding the proposed dissolution of the CNMI Cannabis Commission and commentary by Mr. Ambrose M. Bennett, the Commission’s interim managing director and commissioner, Thomas L. Songsong, offers the following clarifications and recommendations:
“Contrary to claims of dysfunction, the CNMI Cannabis Commission has submitted a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis and restructuring proposal to the House Standing Committee on Cannabis, dated Aug. 5, 2025. This proposal outlines a fiscally responsible transition of Commissioners to part-time advisory roles, enabling the reallocation funds toward expanding a professional regulatory team across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. This model reflects national best practices and ensures continuity, equity, and operational capacity without compromising public oversight.
“The Commission does not support transferring its regulatory mandates to the Department of Commerce. Such a move risks undermining the specialized oversight, institutional knowledge, and community engagement that the Commission has cultivated. Instead, the Commission recommends retaining its independent structure while professionalizing its staff and streamlining board governance.
“While Mr. Bennett is not an appointed advisor to the House Committee on Cannabis, the article’s framing appears to elevate him as an un-ordained spokesperson for cannabis reform. The Commission cautions against conflating personal commentary with institutional authority and urges the Legislature to ground its decisions in current operational data and regulatory realities, not retrospective narratives.
“Regarding Mr. Bennett’s remarks on sponsoring marijuana events, the Commission affirms that it has already clarified with the Office of the Attorney General that it holds no statutory role in sponsoring cannabis events. Any individual or entity, including Mr. Bennett, are free to organize such events under existing law. The Commission’s mandate is regulatory, not promotional, and its focus remains on licensing, enforcement, compliance, and public education.
“While Mr. Bennett’s historical contributions to cannabis legislation are acknowledged, the Commission respectfully disagrees with his characterization of its current operations. The Commission continues to operate transparently, with published meeting minutes, regulatory updates, and active interagency coordination. It welcomes oversight hearings and remains committed to constructive dialogue with all branches of government.
“As Interim Managing Director and Commissioner, I reaffirm the Commission’s commitment to public service, fiscal responsibility, and culturally informed regulation. We urge the Legislature to consider the Commission’s restructuring proposal as a viable path forward, one that preserves strategic leadership while building a professional, citizen-focused regulatory body.
“For further information or to request a copy of the restructuring proposal, please contact the CNMI Cannabis Commission at info.cnmicc@gmail.com/.”
