This bill amends various sections of Alaska's marijuana regulations, primarily focusing on the registration process for marijuana establishments and the associated fees. Key changes include the transition from annual to biennial registrations for applicants and local governments, which is reflected in multiple sections (AS 17.38.200(d), AS 17.38.210(e), and others). The bill also stipulates that if the board does not issue a registration within 90 days, applicants may resubmit their applications directly to local regulatory authorities, who are then required to act within the same timeframe. Additionally, the bill introduces a new tax exemption for qualified small businesses, defined under federal law, and modifies the excise tax on marijuana cultivation from $50 to $12 per ounce.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the tax obligations for marijuana cultivation facilities, including the requirement to pay taxes monthly based on sales or transfers. It establishes penalties for delinquent tax payments and clarifies the applicability of the new tax provisions starting from the tax year following the bill's effective date of July 1, 2025. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the registration process for marijuana establishments while providing tax relief for small businesses in the industry.

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