House Bill No. [insert number] aims to revise laws related to local government and marijuana dispensaries in Montana, particularly clarifying the process for local governments to opt out of recreational marijuana businesses. The bill amends Section 16-12-301 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to establish that marijuana businesses cannot operate in counties where the majority of voters opposed Initiative Measure No. 190 in the November 2020 election unless they receive local approval for their business category. It also allows former medical marijuana licensees to continue operating under certain conditions, even if local jurisdictions do not take action on their applications.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for ballot language regarding the prohibition of adult-use marijuana businesses, specifying that the ballot must clearly state whether voters are for or against banning recreational marijuana dispensaries in their county or municipality. The bill stipulates that if a majority of voters approve a prohibition, it will take effect 90 days after the election. Overall, the legislation seeks to provide clarity and structure to the local governance of marijuana businesses while ensuring that public health and safety regulations are upheld.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 16-12-301
HB0698_1(1): 16-12-301
HB0698_1(2): 16-12-301
HB0698_1(3): 16-12-301
HB0698_1: 16-12-301