Jonathan Robbins, chair of Akerman’s Cannabis Practice, spoke to Law360 about the challenges that cannabis businesses face when negotiating leases to establish their farms to grow cannabis.
Robbins elaborated on the unique logistics required to run a business in the cannabis space, such as dealing with the increased carbon dioxide levels and the presence of propane, which may lead to a fire. “There's always a risk of fire and explosion. As this becomes a ... highly regulated market, you're going to be dealing with [Occupational Safety and Health Administration] standards."
Additionally, he discussed the responsibilities that landlords may face when leasing buildings to marijuana business. “Landlords who are not plant-touching other than leasing the property are now going to have to deal with their banks and insurance carriers to make sure they don't have a problem.”