The bill amends the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act by updating terminology and clarifying definitions related to cannabis regulation in Michigan. A significant change is the replacement of the term "marijuana" with "cannabis" throughout the text, reflecting a more contemporary understanding of the substance. The bill redefines terms such as "advisory panel," "licensee," and "applicant" to align with this updated language. It also specifies the role of the cannabis regulatory agency, outlines conditions for license issuance—including the requirement for applicants to submit fingerprints for a criminal history check—and establishes criteria for license eligibility, detailing disqualifying circumstances like felony convictions or providing false information.
Additionally, the bill addresses the confidentiality and management of information related to cannabis licensing, stating that database information is confidential and can only be disclosed for purposes of the act or law enforcement. It mandates that the Department of State Police forward fingerprints to the FBI for criminal history updates. The bill clarifies that licenses are valid for one year and can be renewed annually if conditions are met, while also emphasizing the regulatory agency's authority to impose sanctions even after a license expires. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the licensing process and ensure that only qualified individuals and entities operate within the cannabis industry, promoting safety and accountability.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 333.27102, 333.27402