Morning Roundup: Marijuana shops ask for rule extension; Wildfires down in 2016


In today’s news, the Oregon Cannabis Association seeks a rule extension, a Beaverton startup raises $1.5 million and Oregon’s forest fires are down this season.

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1. Marijuana shops ask for rule reprieve 

New marijuana rules begin Saturday, and Oregon shops are trying to get rid of stock. One packaging company described the situation as a “fire sale.” That’s because the new rules require child-proof packaging and different labels. Because of the possibility that marijuana shops will be saddled with product they cannot sell, the Oregon Cannabis Association is asking for a 30-day extension from the Oregon Liquor Control Commission, OPB reports. A special meeting is scheduled this afternoon to rule on the request. 

2. Software startup earns $1.5 million in first funding round

Beaverton’s RFPIO — a startup that assists companies with government contract bids — launched last year and began beta testing six months ago. The Portland Business Journal reports the company intends to add staff and boost marketing.

3. Oregon forest fires are down significantly this year

This season 186,317 acres burned, compared to 685,809 acres last year, the Statesman Journal reports. The largest contributor to a slower fire season was fewer dry lighting strikes, followed by a healthier snowpack. October is still wildfire season, but as of today, there are no active wildfires in Oregon.

4. Trump packs his Oregon bags

Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump is retreating from Oregon. The candidate had promised to paint Oregon red, but, as the Bend Bulletin reports, Trump is switching his focus to swing states. His state director is now located in Michigan. 

5. In other Oregon political news, a Bend City Council candidate is banned from city parks

Ronald “Rondo” Boozell was cited alongside former park district board candidate Justin Gottlieb for smoking marijuana in a city park. The Bend Bulletin reports the two were temporarily banned for 15 days from all city parks. While marijuana is legal, public consumption is not.

6. Simple bank expands further

Portland’s online bank Simple is continuing to expand with a joint account service. Simple is building a second office expansion in Southeast Portland, tripling employee capacity to 900.  Joint accounts are available to anyone, as long as the individuals hold separate accounts. The Oregonian reports joint accounts are still in beta testing.

7. 2016 100 Best Nonprofits to Work For in Oregon announced

Check out our 100 Best list here.