CA pot rules open way for potentially larger fields

California released long-awaited rules that will govern the state's emerging legal marijuana industry, while potentially opening the way for larger-scale cultivation that some fear could strangle small-farm growers. The thicket of emergency regulations will allow the state to begin issuing temporary licenses for growers, distributors and sellers on Jan. 1, when recreational sales become legal.They provide a regulatory roadmap for business operations, from licensing fees to establishing guidelines for testing, growing and distribution of marijuana in what is projected to be a $7 billion economy, the nation's largest.As for infused munchies, "edible products cannot be shaped like a human, animal, insect, or fruit," according to a summary of the rules.And if you are thinking about alternative transportation for that pot, don't: It's prohibited to use "aircraft, watercraft, drone, rail, human-powered vehicle and unmanned vehicle."The regulations have been in development for months and in some cases covered familiar ground: At first, the state will issue only temporary licenses to growers and retailers, provided they have a local permit to open for business.