Reps. Filler, Wilson Unveil Plan to Modernize Michigan Marijuana Laws

The legislation will remove duplicate provisions, supporting businesses in Michigan

State Representatives Graham Filler and Jimmie Wilson Jr. today announced a new plan to modernize Michigan’s marijuana laws.

Bills 5884-85 seek to merge the adult-use recreational and medicinal marijuana laws under the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act and repeal the older Medicinal Marijuana Act.

“Streamlining and simplifying these regulations is a win-win for everyone involved — from companies to patients to regulators,” said Filler, R-Duplain Township. “By modernizing the regulatory process, we can help companies reduce costs and increase efficiency.”

Currently, entities licensed to sell marijuana in Michigan are subject to two different state laws: the Medical Marijuana Facility Licensing Act, passed by the legislature in 2016 to oversee the regulation of facilities and the issuance of licenses, and the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act, passed by voters in 2018.

This dual regulatory system has created burdens for businesses as well as the state Cannabis Regulatory Agency. For example, marijuana license holders must renew both their medical and recreational licenses each year to cultivate, process, transport or sell marijuana.

Bills 5884-85 would reduce costs for businesses and improve government efficiency by requiring only one license to operate under the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act. The bill would not make any changes to the established system for medical marijuana patients and caregivers under the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act of 2008.

“This is about making Michigan an attractive and stable place for marijuana businesses to grow,” said Wilson, D-Ypsilanti. “A single, consistent regulatory structure will support our growing economy, ensure the safety and quality of marijuana products, and maintain access for medical marijuana patients. This is a forward-thinking approach that positions Michigan as a leader in the industry.”

House Bills 5884-85 were referred for consideration to the House of Representatives Committee on Regulatory Reform.

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