“I was a leader in the passage of legislation regarding THC edibles, beverages. Yes, it was my contribution to that policy.”
By Michelle Griffith, Minnesota Reformer
Ryan Winkler, former DFL House Majority Leader, is starting a THC beverage business after playing a crucial role in the passage law that legalized THC edibles.
Winkler will launch Crooked Beverage Company, a new business venture that sells THC-infused, flavored beverages at retail locations within the next few months. The Legislature passed a bill last year that legalized the sale of low-dose THC foods and beverages to persons over 21. It was not widely known until July 1, when it became effective.
Winkler stated to the Reformer that he didn’t intend to start a business last year, when he was leading the effort for legalization of low-dose THC products. He decided to enter the THC beverage industry after losing the August primary election for Hennepin County Attorney.
“I had hoped to become a Hennepin County Attorney and I was focused on public safety. Winkler stated that he had never considered being in business, but the voters made it clear and he looked for other opportunities.
Former House majority leader was a leader in the effort in Minnesota to legalize recreational cannabis. In 2021, the House passed Winkler’s bill to legalize recreational marijuana, but it stalled in the Republican-controlled Senate. The legalization of marijuana in this year’s Congress is very similar to Winkler’s.
Winkler is currently chair of MN is Ready. This pro-marijuana advocacy campaign is focused on legalization. Winkler is not a registered lobbyist and said that he isn’t paid by MN is Ready Coalition. It is composed of three legalization advocacy organizations.
Winkler stated that the THC beverage market has potential and can be a great alternative to alcohol and other high-potency THC products.
He said that he doesn’t worry about the public perception that he is making a profit from a company that sells products that have been legalized only because of his leadership.
Winkler stated that he was a part of the legislation to pass THC edibles, beverages. I don’t know why private citizens can’t open a business in an area they are knowledgeable about.
Winkler described his business venture as a physician who cannot practice medicine due to their work on health care legislation.
Winkler stated that he doesn’t believe that standard is fair or reasonable for ex-elected officials.
According to the Office Secretary of State, Crooked Beverage Company registered with the office on November 8, last year, Election Day.
Winkler stated that Crooked Beverage Company is a private company. He declined to reveal who was involved as the company has not yet launched.
Although the website contains descriptions of founders of the business, it does not name them.
“One of our founders was involved in the Minnesota cannabis legislation with the goal of bringing compliant products to market. Two of our founders also helped to shape California’s cannabis landscape (Cali sober babies!). Crooked’s website explains the benefits. Our tonic was created to encourage drinking something healthier for your body and to allow you to have a little fun.
Winkler stated that he supports licensing and regulating THC beverage companies as part of the cannabis bill currently in the Legislature. The current law does not provide for a licensing mechanism. He stated that he wanted Crooked Beverage Company as a model for Minnesota’s THC-related companies.
Winkler stated, “I want the market to set the standard in this area,”
This story first appeared in Minnesota Reformer.
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The post An ex-Top Minnesota Lawmaker Launches a Cannabis-Infused Drink Company appeared originally on Marijuana Moment.
