This bill amends various sections of Alaska's marijuana regulations, primarily changing the registration period for marijuana establishments from annual to biennial. Specifically, it modifies the registration process to require the board to issue a biennial registration within 45 to 90 days of receiving an application, unless the applicant is found non-compliant with existing regulations. Local governments are also permitted to establish biennial fees for operating and registration. Additionally, if the board fails to issue a registration within the specified timeframe, applicants may resubmit their applications directly to local regulatory authorities, who must also issue biennial registrations.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a tax exemption for qualified small businesses, defined as Alaska corporations meeting specific criteria under federal law. It also revises the excise tax on marijuana cultivation, reducing the rate from $50 to $12 per ounce and establishing new tax liabilities for individuals cultivating marijuana without valid registration. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
SB0073A, AM SB 73, introduced 01/24/2025: 17.38.200, 17.38.190, 17.38.210, 17.38.320, 17.38.300, 43.20.012, 16.10.380, 16.10.400, 16.10.450, 16.10.455, 16.12.010, 16.12.080, 16.12.090, U.S.C, 43.61.010, 17.38.020, 43.61.020, 43.61.030, 43.05.220