The bill revises the marijuana election requirements for certain municipalities in Montana, specifically amending Section 16-12-301 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA). It introduces a definition for "qualified municipality," which is defined as a city or town that has organized and currently manages its own local police department, excluding those that receive law enforcement services from an external agency. The bill also establishes that a two-thirds majority of qualified electors in a qualified municipality can approve or prohibit the operation of specific categories of marijuana businesses within their jurisdiction. Additionally, it allows for the separation of votes in municipalities with populations over 5,000 during county elections regarding marijuana business categories.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions that exempt former medical marijuana licensees from local regulations adopted after July 1, 2021, until their first license renewal date after January 1, 2022. It also clarifies that marijuana businesses in counties where voters approved Initiative Measure No. 190 are not subject to local government approval processes. The bill emphasizes that local governments cannot prohibit the transportation of marijuana on public roads by licensed individuals. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 16-12-301