A Controversial Decision: Shemia Fagan’s Consulting Job
Oregon Secretary of State Shemia Fagan has terminated her private consulting job at the heart of recent controversy. This position was with Veriede Holdings, LLC., an affiliate of Oregon-based cannabis store chain La Mota. Fagan apologized for her “poor judgement” in taking the job.
Details of the Consulting Contract
Fagan’s consulting contract revealed a monthly payment of $10,000 with a potential bonus of $35,000 if Veriede Holdings could secure a license in a state other than Oregon or New Mexico. The connection between Fagan and Veriede Holdings came to light when the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office released an audit of the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC).
OLCC Audit Raises Questions
The audit recommended OLCC reform some rules for marijuana businesses due to the burdens they create when combined with federal restrictions on interstate commerce, banking, and taxation. Fagan recused herself from the audit due to her consulting job, a position that was not widely known. The revelation that Veriede Holdings is owned by some of Fagan’s political donors further fueled controversy.
Republican Lawmakers Call for Resignation
Following the audit’s release, several Republican lawmakers called for Fagan’s resignation, and Governor Tina Kotek requested an investigation by the Oregon Government Ethics Commission and the Department of Justice. Fagan asserts that she followed state ethics guidelines in accepting the consulting job but admits it was a mistake.
Fagan’s Apology and Future Plans
In her statement, Fagan apologizes to Oregonians and pledges to work on rebuilding the trust she has broken. She looks forward to the findings of the Oregon Government Ethics Commission and the Department of Justice’s review of the OLCC audit, confident they will confirm her adherence to ethics rules and laws.
Press Conference and Moving Forward
Fagan held a press conference to address the situation and take responsibility for breaking the public’s trust. As she continues her mission as Secretary of State to build trust, she acknowledges that admitting to breaking it is the first step in the process of rebuilding.
