Michigan bill seeks to merge recreational and medical cannabis regulations

A bipartisan bill in Michigan aims to “modernize” the state’s cannabis laws by merging regulations governing the recreational and medical cannabis industries. The reforms would repeal the state’s 2016 Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act, and the bill’s sponsors say the current dual regulatory system “has created burdens for both businesses and the state’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency.”

In a statement, Republican state Rep. Graham Filler said, “Streamlining and simplifying these laws is a win for everyone involved – from companies to patients to regulators.”

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

Under the current system, cannabis licensees must renew both a medical and recreational license annually to grow, process, transport or sell cannabis products. The sponsors say the The invoice will reduce costs for businesses and improve government efficiency by requiring only one license per activity under the state’s Cannabis Legalization Act, while making no changes to the system for patients and caregivers under the state’s 2008 Medical Cannabis Legalization Act.

Democratic state Rep. Jimmie Wilson Jr. said the proposal “aims to make Michigan an attractive and stable location for thriving marijuana businesses.”

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

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

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