House Bill 49 revises existing laws concerning synthetic cannabinoids in Montana, specifically amending the Montana Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act. The bill introduces key changes, including the replacement of "synthetic marijuana" with "synthetic cannabinoid" to clarify terminology. It prohibits the manufacture and distribution of synthetic cannabinoid products and stipulates that marijuana and marijuana products cannot be classified as agricultural products unless explicitly stated. Local governments are granted the authority to regulate marijuana businesses, and the bill establishes safety and testing requirements for marijuana products, ensuring public health and safety.

Additionally, the bill outlines restrictions on marijuana use and distribution, particularly for individuals under 21 years of age, and prohibits consumption in certain public spaces and while operating vehicles. It mandates testing of marijuana products and sets reporting and inspection requirements for licensed businesses. The legislation also allows state agencies to investigate unlawful activities related to synthetic cannabinoids and imposes penalties for violations. Provisions for child-resistant packaging and labeling of marijuana products are included to prevent appeal to children. The bill is designed to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids in Montana and is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_1(1): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_1(2): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_1(3): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_1(4): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_1(5): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_1(6): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_1: 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_2: 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_X(1): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_X(2): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_X(3): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_X(4): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_X(5): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_X(6): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_X(7): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_X(8): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_X(9): 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623
HB0049_X: 16-12-101, 16-12-102, 16-12-108, 16-12-112, 16-12-117, 16-12-208, 16-12-305, 45-5-623