The proposed bill would update current statutes by introducing a rural opportunity initiative that allows the Department of Health Services (DHS) to issue up to 18 marijuana establishment licenses specifically for qualified entities in rural communities. Each licensed entity would be required to obtain a nonprofit medical marijuana dispensary registration certificate, which can only be relocated to another unserved rural community. The bill also sets a timeline for entities to open their retail sites within 18 months of receiving their licenses, or face invalidation, and defines "unserved rural community" while establishing procedures for communities to opt out of the initiative.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the criteria for unserved rural communities, specifying that they must have populations under fifty thousand and be located at least twenty-five miles from existing marijuana retail sites. It includes provisions for landowner consent and compliance with local zoning restrictions, limiting each licensed entity to operate one retail location and one off-site cultivation location. Overall, these updates aim to enhance access to marijuana services in rural areas while ensuring adherence to local regulations and fostering economic growth.

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