State of Michigan asking for public input to write marijuana rules

LANSING, Mich. -- How would you like to help make new marijuana laws?

Well, the state of Michigan wants the public’s help to be a part of a discussion to shape the new recreational marijuana laws.

The Bureau of Marijuana Regulation is working to organize volunteer work groups to get input and anyone is welcome to apply to be a part of one.

The groups are as follows:

• Licensees who are already licensed under the Medical Marijuana Facilities Licensing Act and are interested in entering the adult-use marijuana market.
• Municipalities that are considering allowing licensed adult-use marijuana facilities in their community.
• Attorneys who represent marijuana establishments who have an interest in the adult-use market
• Individuals and businesses interested in participating in the adult-use market as either a future licensee or a consumer of adult-use marijuana.

As a part of a work group, you would discuss and provide suggestions on regulatory topics related to the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act.

David Harns at the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs said public opinion is an essential part of the process.

“It’s good to get the perspective of those on the ground,” Harns said. “It’s good to cast as wide a net as possible and make sure that everybody in the state is represented when it comes to writing these administrative rules.”

Applications to be a part of the work group are being accepted until Monday March 4 at 9 a.m. and selections will be announced on March 11. 

Anyone who wants to participate can apply to be a part of a work group by sending an email to [email protected] with “WORK GROUP” in the subject line. The body of the email needs to include the following information:

• The name of the work group in which you want to participate: licensees, municipalities, attorneys or individuals/businesses.
• Your name, mailing address, email address, phone number, occupation, job title, and the name of the employer or organization with which you’re affiliated.
• A brief explanation (no more than 150 words) detailing your qualifications for inclusion in the stakeholder work group.

While not everyone will be selected to participate, Harns said there will be a time for everyone to review the rules before they become permanent.

The work groups will be scheduled for the end of March and anyone who is selected will be notified of the time, date, and location.