This bill proposes several updates to current statutes regarding the issuance of nonprofit medical marijuana dispensary registration certificates and the establishment of a rural opportunity initiative. Under the current law, the Department of Health is required to issue new registration certificates based on geographic area, with specific priorities outlined. The bill introduces an exception for entities that hold a marijuana establishment license, allowing them to receive a registration certificate and relocate their retail site to unserved rural communities. Additionally, it mandates that these entities must open their dispensaries within eighteen months of approval, as stated in the law. The bill also establishes a new section, 36-2857.01, which outlines the requirements and processes for the rural opportunity initiative. This includes provisions for the department to adopt rules by July 1, 2026, and to maintain a list of unserved rural communities that opt out of the initiative. Furthermore, it specifies that entities must have landowner consent and comply with local zoning restrictions to qualify for a license. The removal of certain existing provisions and the addition of new definitions and requirements aim to enhance the regulatory framework for marijuana establishments while promoting economic opportunities in rural areas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-2910
Senate Engrossed Version: 44-1642
House Engrossed Version: 36-2803.01, 36-2854, 36-2857.01, 32-1929, 36-2854.01, 4-241, 36-2816, 36-2856, 41-192