Senate committee questions Peter Holmes on liquor and cannabis board priorities

Peter Holmes testified before the Senate Labor & Commerce Committee on his appointment to the Liquor and Cannabis Board. Holmes said he was “humbled by this appointment” and emphasized his interest in balancing public-health oversight with support for the financial health of regulated businesses, which he called important to compliance.

Holmes told the committee that intoxication in the workplace is not permitted and said possession policies and drug‑free workplace rules “need to be examined” in light of legalization. He described ongoing system modernization at the Liquor and Cannabis Board as a step to improve licensing and customer service. On the cannabis industry, Holmes said he supports efforts reflected in the social equity and cannabis task force report and the Hillard Heinz review to focus the board’s education and enforcement work.

Senators pressed him on whether a single three-member board can effectively regulate both the longstanding liquor industry and the newer, rapidly evolving cannabis market. Holmes acknowledged the challenge and said he is open to discussing structural or operational improvements. He also discussed product-strength concerns and suggested that new retail models, such as consumption lounges, could encourage lower-dose products and different market dynamics.

The nominee took the oath under Senate Rule 69 and answered questions from multiple senators; the committee did not record a confirmation vote at the hearing.