Michigan bill aims to merge adult-use and medical marijuana laws

Bipartisan legislation introduced in Michigan aims to “modernize” the state’s marijuana laws by combining regulations for the adult-use and medical marijuana industries. The reforms would repeal the state’s 2016 Medical Marijuana Facilities Licensing Act, with the bill’s sponsors saying the current dual regulatory system has “created burdens on businesses as well as the state’s Marijuana Regulatory Agency.”

In a statement, state Rep. Graham Filler (R) said, “Streamlining and simplifying this regulation is a win-win for everyone involved—from companies to patients to regulators.”

“By modernizing the regulatory process, we can help companies reduce costs and increase efficiency.” — Filler in press release

Under the current system, cannabis license holders must renew both their medical and recreational licenses annually to cultivate, process, transport or sell cannabis products. Sponsors say Bill Reduce costs for businesses and increase government efficiency by requiring only one license for each practice under the state’s legal marijuana law, while making no changes to the system for medical marijuana patients and caregivers under the state’s 2008 medical marijuana law.

State Rep. Jimmie Wilson Jr. (D) said the proposal “aims to make Michigan an attractive and stable place for marijuana businesses to grow.”

“A single, consistent regulatory framework will support our growing economy, ensure the safety and quality of marijuana products, and maintain patient access to medical marijuana,” he said in a statement. “This is a forward-thinking approach that positions Michigan as a leader in the industry.”

The bills were referred to the House of Representatives Regulatory Reform Committee on June 27.

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