Baron23
Well-Known Member
And what state do you see right at the most expensive end of almost all categories....that's right, the socialist state of Maryland. My home. sigh
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Law Michigan MMJ
- Thread starter momofthegoons
- Start date
Michigan inmate serving 60-year sentence for selling weed requests clemency
Michael Thompson has been in prison since 1996 for selling weed to an informant.
A Michigan man serving a 60-year prison sentence for selling marijuana to an informant is taking a second chance to ask for clemency from the governor.
Michael Thompson, 68, has been in prison since 1996 after a jury convicted him of three counts of selling marijuana and two counts of illegal possession of a firearm as a felony offender.
Thompson, then 45, was arrested during the drug sale where no weapons were recovered on him or in his vehicle. The guns were recovered from his home after a search warrant was executed on Dec. 19, 1994.
Because of Thompson's past convictions, the trial judge rendered the maximum sentence for each drug charge to run concurrently.
Michael Thompson, now 68, who has been in prison in the Muskegon Correctional Facility in Michigan, is serving a 40 to 60 year sentence for selling marijuana to an informant. On Jan. 29, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer will receive the official pardon request on his behalf.
Michael Thompson, now 68, who has been in prison in the Muskegon Correctional Facility in Michigan, is serving a 40 to 60 year sentence for selling marijuana to an informant. On Jan. 29, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer will receive the official pardon request on his behalf. Courtesy Michigan Department of Corrections
Thompson's sentence is 40 to 60 years. His earliest release date from Muskegon Correctional Facility is April 29, 2038, according to online records.
"He has never committed a violent act," according to the "Free Michael Thompson" online petition. "Michael was labeled violent because police found guns at his house, even though in Michigan people can legally and openly carry guns. One was an antique and another was his wife’s gun."
During Thompson's last parole board hearing in 2018, he was denied release and his first request to have his sentence commuted by then Gov. Rick Synder was also rejected. That same year Michigan voted to legalize recreational use of marijuana -- an offense Thompson spent 23 years in prison for.
The petition launched in 2019, with the goal of getting 20,000 signatures and a letter on Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's desk requesting clemency.
"Mr. Thompson can reapply for clemency to the Parole Board on January 29th (today). If recommended to our office by the Parole Board, this is something we will review closely,” wrote Tiffany Brown, a spokeswoman for Whitmer, in an email to ABC News on Wednesday.
Thompson's attorney, Kimberly Corral, who learned about his case last year, is expected to deliver the letter to the governor on Wednesday, along with a packet of letters from dozens of supporters.
Thompson's case caught the attention of social activist Shaun King, who has posted several tweets to get the public to sign the petition, after coverage in Rolling Stone magazine.
Supporters of Thompson also tagged celebrity-turned-activist Kim Kardashian West -- who used her platform to assist with getting presidential clemency for Alice Johnson in 2018 -- to shine light on the case. Johnson was given a mandatory life sentence for participating in an Alabama drug ring -- it was her first offense.
Michael Thompson has been in prison since 1996 for selling weed to an informant.
A Michigan man serving a 60-year prison sentence for selling marijuana to an informant is taking a second chance to ask for clemency from the governor.
Michael Thompson, 68, has been in prison since 1996 after a jury convicted him of three counts of selling marijuana and two counts of illegal possession of a firearm as a felony offender.
Thompson, then 45, was arrested during the drug sale where no weapons were recovered on him or in his vehicle. The guns were recovered from his home after a search warrant was executed on Dec. 19, 1994.
Because of Thompson's past convictions, the trial judge rendered the maximum sentence for each drug charge to run concurrently.
Michael Thompson, now 68, who has been in prison in the Muskegon Correctional Facility in Michigan, is serving a 40 to 60 year sentence for selling marijuana to an informant. On Jan. 29, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer will receive the official pardon request on his behalf.
Michael Thompson, now 68, who has been in prison in the Muskegon Correctional Facility in Michigan, is serving a 40 to 60 year sentence for selling marijuana to an informant. On Jan. 29, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer will receive the official pardon request on his behalf. Courtesy Michigan Department of Corrections
Thompson's sentence is 40 to 60 years. His earliest release date from Muskegon Correctional Facility is April 29, 2038, according to online records.
"He has never committed a violent act," according to the "Free Michael Thompson" online petition. "Michael was labeled violent because police found guns at his house, even though in Michigan people can legally and openly carry guns. One was an antique and another was his wife’s gun."
During Thompson's last parole board hearing in 2018, he was denied release and his first request to have his sentence commuted by then Gov. Rick Synder was also rejected. That same year Michigan voted to legalize recreational use of marijuana -- an offense Thompson spent 23 years in prison for.
The petition launched in 2019, with the goal of getting 20,000 signatures and a letter on Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's desk requesting clemency.
"Mr. Thompson can reapply for clemency to the Parole Board on January 29th (today). If recommended to our office by the Parole Board, this is something we will review closely,” wrote Tiffany Brown, a spokeswoman for Whitmer, in an email to ABC News on Wednesday.
Thompson's attorney, Kimberly Corral, who learned about his case last year, is expected to deliver the letter to the governor on Wednesday, along with a packet of letters from dozens of supporters.
Thompson's case caught the attention of social activist Shaun King, who has posted several tweets to get the public to sign the petition, after coverage in Rolling Stone magazine.
Supporters of Thompson also tagged celebrity-turned-activist Kim Kardashian West -- who used her platform to assist with getting presidential clemency for Alice Johnson in 2018 -- to shine light on the case. Johnson was given a mandatory life sentence for participating in an Alabama drug ring -- it was her first offense.
Baron23
Well-Known Member
Now this is indeed a travesty.
Baron23
Well-Known Member
" All of the tainted cartridges — 3,400 in all — originated from caregivers."
WTF!!?? Sort of redefines "caregiver", yeah?
5 more Michigan dispensaries sold cannabis vape cartridges tainted with potentially deadly vitamin E acetate
Five dispensaries in Michigan were selling cannabis vape cartridges that were tainted with vitamin E acetate, the potentially deadly chemical additive linked to the vaping-related lung illness.
The state's Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA), which banned vitamin E acetate on Nov. 22, announced a recall Friday on numerous varieties of vaping cartridges sold at the Green Mile in Detroit, Liv Wellness Center in Ferndale, 664 Vassar in Vassar, Fuel 420 in Ferndale, and Green House of Walled Lake.
All of the tainted cartridges — 3,400 in all — originated from caregivers.
It’s the third time the state has recalled cannabis cartridges tainted with vitamin E acetate, a substance that is used to "cut" or dilute cannabis oil to maximize profits. On Jan. 23, the MRA recalled tainted cartridges that were sold at Plan B Wellness on E. Eight Mile Rd. The first recall was on Dec. 17 involving cartridges sold at Elite Wellness in Mount Morris.
On Nov. 22, dispensaries were required to remove tens of thousands of vape cartridges from their shelves for testing. It has been a laborious process because only one of the state’s six licensed labs — PSI Labs in Ann Arbor — has been approved to do the testing.
The lung illness linked to vitamin E acetate has caused the deaths of at least 60 people and sickened more than 2,600 others nationwide. Two of those deaths were in Michigan. Since the outbreak began last summer, the media and health officials were falsely suggesting that nicotine vaping was to blame. Two-thirds of adults still believe nicotine vaping was causing the lung-related deaths, according to a new poll.
The state is not requiring cartridges to be tested for vitamin E acetate if they were made after the Nov. 22 ban.
These products were recalled with the following METRC number, which appears on the packaging:
The Green Mile:
• True-CBD/THC
# 1A40401000006A5000001527
Sold between June 8, 2019 and July 1, 2019
Fuel 420:
• Cart 510, Wedding Cake
# 1A4050100001AF5000000026
Sold between April 3, 2019 and Nov. 11, 2019
• Carts 510, Lime
# 1A4050100001AF5000000032
Sold between March 31, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
Cart 510, Skittlez
# 1A4050100001AF5000000022
Sold between March 31, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
• Carts 510, Lemonade
# 1A4050100001AF5000000031
Sold between March 31, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
Green House of Walled Lake:
• True, Green Crack
#1A40401000006A5000001961
Sold between July 10, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
• Motor City High, Green Crack
#1A4050100000BB9000001101
Sold between Jan. 28, 2020 and Feb 5. 2020
• True-Sandferando
#1A40401000006A5000001963
Sold between July 20, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
• Motor City High, San Fernando Valley
#1A4050100000BB9000001103
Sold between Jan. 28, 2020 and Feb. 5, 2019
• True, North Lights
#1A40401000006A5000001962
Sold between July 18, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
• Motor City High, Northern Lights
Sold between July 18, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
# 1A4050100000BB9000001102
Sold between Jan. 28, 2020 and Feb. 5, 2020
Liv Wellness Center:
• True, Green Crack
#1A40401000006A5000002323
Sold between Sept. 18, 2019 and Nov. 06, 2019
• True, Sandferando
#1A40401000006A5000002325
Sold between Sept. 18, 2019 and Nov. 21, 2019
• True, North Lights
#1A40401000006A5000002326
Sold between Sept. 13, 2019 and Nov. 06, 2019
• True, CBD/THC
#1A40401000006A5000002205
Sold between Sept. 12, 2019 and Nov. 19, 2019
664 Vassar:
• True, Green Crack
#1A40501000045ED000002619
Sold between Jan. 10, 2020 and Feb. 4, 2020
• True, Sandferando
#1A40501000045ED000002609
Sold between Jan. 10, 2020 and Feb. 4, 2020
• True, North Lights
# 1A40501000045ED000002620
Sold between Jan. 10, 2020 and Feb. 5, 2020
# 1A40501000045ED000002618
• True, CBD/THC
# 1A40501000045ED000002618
Sold between Jan. 10, 2020 and Feb. 5, 2020
WTF!!?? Sort of redefines "caregiver", yeah?
5 more Michigan dispensaries sold cannabis vape cartridges tainted with potentially deadly vitamin E acetate
Five dispensaries in Michigan were selling cannabis vape cartridges that were tainted with vitamin E acetate, the potentially deadly chemical additive linked to the vaping-related lung illness.
The state's Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA), which banned vitamin E acetate on Nov. 22, announced a recall Friday on numerous varieties of vaping cartridges sold at the Green Mile in Detroit, Liv Wellness Center in Ferndale, 664 Vassar in Vassar, Fuel 420 in Ferndale, and Green House of Walled Lake.
All of the tainted cartridges — 3,400 in all — originated from caregivers.
It’s the third time the state has recalled cannabis cartridges tainted with vitamin E acetate, a substance that is used to "cut" or dilute cannabis oil to maximize profits. On Jan. 23, the MRA recalled tainted cartridges that were sold at Plan B Wellness on E. Eight Mile Rd. The first recall was on Dec. 17 involving cartridges sold at Elite Wellness in Mount Morris.
On Nov. 22, dispensaries were required to remove tens of thousands of vape cartridges from their shelves for testing. It has been a laborious process because only one of the state’s six licensed labs — PSI Labs in Ann Arbor — has been approved to do the testing.
The lung illness linked to vitamin E acetate has caused the deaths of at least 60 people and sickened more than 2,600 others nationwide. Two of those deaths were in Michigan. Since the outbreak began last summer, the media and health officials were falsely suggesting that nicotine vaping was to blame. Two-thirds of adults still believe nicotine vaping was causing the lung-related deaths, according to a new poll.
The state is not requiring cartridges to be tested for vitamin E acetate if they were made after the Nov. 22 ban.
These products were recalled with the following METRC number, which appears on the packaging:
The Green Mile:
• True-CBD/THC
# 1A40401000006A5000001527
Sold between June 8, 2019 and July 1, 2019
Fuel 420:
• Cart 510, Wedding Cake
# 1A4050100001AF5000000026
Sold between April 3, 2019 and Nov. 11, 2019
• Carts 510, Lime
# 1A4050100001AF5000000032
Sold between March 31, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
Cart 510, Skittlez
# 1A4050100001AF5000000022
Sold between March 31, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
• Carts 510, Lemonade
# 1A4050100001AF5000000031
Sold between March 31, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
Green House of Walled Lake:
• True, Green Crack
#1A40401000006A5000001961
Sold between July 10, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
• Motor City High, Green Crack
#1A4050100000BB9000001101
Sold between Jan. 28, 2020 and Feb 5. 2020
• True-Sandferando
#1A40401000006A5000001963
Sold between July 20, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
• Motor City High, San Fernando Valley
#1A4050100000BB9000001103
Sold between Jan. 28, 2020 and Feb. 5, 2019
• True, North Lights
#1A40401000006A5000001962
Sold between July 18, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
• Motor City High, Northern Lights
Sold between July 18, 2019 and Nov. 22, 2019
# 1A4050100000BB9000001102
Sold between Jan. 28, 2020 and Feb. 5, 2020
Liv Wellness Center:
• True, Green Crack
#1A40401000006A5000002323
Sold between Sept. 18, 2019 and Nov. 06, 2019
• True, Sandferando
#1A40401000006A5000002325
Sold between Sept. 18, 2019 and Nov. 21, 2019
• True, North Lights
#1A40401000006A5000002326
Sold between Sept. 13, 2019 and Nov. 06, 2019
• True, CBD/THC
#1A40401000006A5000002205
Sold between Sept. 12, 2019 and Nov. 19, 2019
664 Vassar:
• True, Green Crack
#1A40501000045ED000002619
Sold between Jan. 10, 2020 and Feb. 4, 2020
• True, Sandferando
#1A40501000045ED000002609
Sold between Jan. 10, 2020 and Feb. 4, 2020
• True, North Lights
# 1A40501000045ED000002620
Sold between Jan. 10, 2020 and Feb. 5, 2020
# 1A40501000045ED000002618
• True, CBD/THC
# 1A40501000045ED000002618
Sold between Jan. 10, 2020 and Feb. 5, 2020
'Fluresh' opens as Grand Rapids' first medical marijuana shop
A customer smelling marijuana flower product at Fluresh in Grand Rapids at the store's grand opening
BRYCE HUFFMAN / MICHIGAN RADIO
The city of Grand Rapids now has its first medical marijuana dispensary.
The grand opening of Fluresh on the city’s Southwest side Friday came more than two months after the state’s first recreational marijuana shops opened.
Leah Bailey, the CEO of Fluresh, says this has been a long time coming.
“We are overwhelmed, thrilled, feel very fortunate and honored that we’re able to bring the very first medical dispensary to the city of Grand Rapids,” Bailey said.
Bailey says she hopes to sell recreational products once the city allows recreational marijuana shops.
“We would like to serve the medical patients first, but also the people of Grand Rapids,” she said.
Michigan already has 43 recreational marijuana shops. The city of Grand Rapids has said it will open applications for recreational dispensaries on April 20th, also known as the marijuana holiday "420."
Kyle Riddering, a Sparta resident and one of the customers at Fluresh’s grand opening, says he’s happy that there’s a dispensary that isn’t far away.
“Before this, people had to drive two, three hours to Bay City just to get good deals. And if they wanted to go to Lansing, they were paying a higher price,” Riddering said.
Nancy Wheeler is a medical marijuana patient who says she uses different marijuana products to ease her aches and pains.
Wheeler says she’s happy to see the shop open closer to home, but she also knows Fluresh would have more business if recreational users were allowed to shop there.
“I really thought the line outside would be much longer, but I know once they start selling recreational, this place is going to be packed,” Wheeler said.
A customer smelling marijuana flower product at Fluresh in Grand Rapids at the store's grand opening
BRYCE HUFFMAN / MICHIGAN RADIO
The city of Grand Rapids now has its first medical marijuana dispensary.
The grand opening of Fluresh on the city’s Southwest side Friday came more than two months after the state’s first recreational marijuana shops opened.
Leah Bailey, the CEO of Fluresh, says this has been a long time coming.
“We are overwhelmed, thrilled, feel very fortunate and honored that we’re able to bring the very first medical dispensary to the city of Grand Rapids,” Bailey said.
Bailey says she hopes to sell recreational products once the city allows recreational marijuana shops.
“We would like to serve the medical patients first, but also the people of Grand Rapids,” she said.
Michigan already has 43 recreational marijuana shops. The city of Grand Rapids has said it will open applications for recreational dispensaries on April 20th, also known as the marijuana holiday "420."
Kyle Riddering, a Sparta resident and one of the customers at Fluresh’s grand opening, says he’s happy that there’s a dispensary that isn’t far away.
“Before this, people had to drive two, three hours to Bay City just to get good deals. And if they wanted to go to Lansing, they were paying a higher price,” Riddering said.
Nancy Wheeler is a medical marijuana patient who says she uses different marijuana products to ease her aches and pains.
Wheeler says she’s happy to see the shop open closer to home, but she also knows Fluresh would have more business if recreational users were allowed to shop there.
“I really thought the line outside would be much longer, but I know once they start selling recreational, this place is going to be packed,” Wheeler said.
New guidelines for vaping and medical marijuana
The Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency sets new rules for vaping and medical marijuana caregivers
LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) - Guidelines concerning vaping have been updated by the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency
The agency has announced that any vaping product that contains ingredients originating outside the regulated market, must be tested for the possibly deadly chemical Vitamin E acetate, and any inactive ingredients in the products must also be listed on the label
In addition, beginning March 1, 2020, medical marijuana caregivers will be banned from selling THC oil or finished vaping cartridges.
The Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency sets new rules for vaping and medical marijuana caregivers
LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) - Guidelines concerning vaping have been updated by the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency
The agency has announced that any vaping product that contains ingredients originating outside the regulated market, must be tested for the possibly deadly chemical Vitamin E acetate, and any inactive ingredients in the products must also be listed on the label
In addition, beginning March 1, 2020, medical marijuana caregivers will be banned from selling THC oil or finished vaping cartridges.
Pot businesses join Michigan GOP in opposing labor pacts with workers
Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency Director Andrew Brisbo said the proposed labor peace agreement rule was intended “to make sure there’s as much stability as possible” in the burgeoning market. (Bridge photo by Riley Beggin)
Two years ago, advocates for recreational marijuana were hustling to persuade Michiganders to approve legalization while facing opposition from leading business groups and Republicans heading up state government.
Now some of those advocates are aligned with their former detractors, at least on one thing: opposition to requiring weed businesses to enter into a “labor peace agreement” with employees before receiving a license from the state.
Labor peace agreements usually make it easier for workplaces to become unionized because the employer typically agrees not to stand in the way of employees who want to organize. However, the agreement would also require workers to pledge not to boycott or strike.
The state Marijuana Regulatory Agency proposed including the requirement in rules that will govern the burgeoning industry by July 1 at the latest. Debate over the provision was at the center of an overflowing public hearing in Lansing on Wednesday, where marijuana lawyers, business owners and workers told regulators how they’d like to see those rules changed.
Advocates for business owners argued the rule was unpopular and possibly even illegal; workers spoke passionately about how it could help foster sustainable jobs in an industry often dominated by big businesses and wealthy investors.
Cody Dekker of Kalamazoo told regulators he is a budtender — the industry’s word for front-of-house employees who serve marijuana to customers — who was fired for trying to organize his fellow workers. He said he has a chronic health condition and lost his health insurance when he lost his job.
“Currently we as workers have no representation or power as the industry booms and some people make millions of dollars,” Dekker said. “I worked hard and played by the rules. Companies should do the same thing.”
Michigan’s recreational marijuana industry has made more than $17.7 million in sales since launching in December 2019, according to data from the MRA. When the market is fully established, the nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency has estimated annual sales will be about $949 million.
Another speaker, Josey Scoggin of Benton Harbor, said she’s worked in the marijuana industry for nine years. She recently was offered a job at a dispensary in Portage for $14 per hour and had to turn it down because she wouldn’t be able to afford an apartment in the area. “I’ve never been offered a 401(k) or health insurance,” she told officials.
If the rules are approved as they are now, the agreement would require the labor organization to agree not to picket, stop work, boycott or engage in “any other economic interference with the applicant’s business.”
Brisbo and staff listened to public testimony on proposed rules governing the marijuana industry Wednesday morning. Many spoke in support of a provision that would require employers to enter into labor peace agreements with workers. (Bridge photo by Riley Beggin)
The deal basically means “that the business owner won’t stand in the way of organization by the staff at the facility, and that the labor organization wouldn’t push the labor force into a strike situation,” said Marijuana Regulatory Agency director Andrew Brisbo.
Businesses are already operating on “pretty thin profit margins,” so the provision was intended to provide “as much stability as possible” in the market, Brisbo said, heading off “labor disruptions.”
Robin Schneider, executive director for the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association, the leading group advocating for Michigan marijuana businesses, told Brisbo and his staff Wednesday that most of her members are opposed to labor peace agreements.
“We certainly did not include it in the ballot initiative language,” she said of the successful 2018 campaign that legalized recreational marijuana.
Tim Beck, a longtime marijuana advocate who helped organize the 2008 initiative to legalize medical marijuana in Michigan, said the labor provision “is crazy” and will get struck down.
“I cannot in my wildest imagination understand why you came up with a cockamamie scheme like this.”
Their voices echo those who once opposed them in the drive to legalize recreational pot. The Republican-led Legislature passed a resolution condemning the labor agreement requirement, while leading business groups like the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and Small Business Association of Michigan warned it could have devastating consequences for businesses in other industries as well.
Rich Studley, CEO of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, told Bridge he was shocked about “the extraordinary precedent that would be set” by the rule due to the large number of businesses that must get licensure from the state in order to operate.
The provision is “at best extra-legal… and at worst it is an indirect approach to circumventing or watering down and repealing Right to Work,” Studley said, referencing a 2012 law that made it illegal for a worker to be required to join a union as a condition of employment.
“Today they’re seeking to impose this requirement on a new industry. Who’s next?”
Little is predictable in the rapidly expanding marijuana industry, and the impact of such a provision isn’t entirely clear. But other states such as New York and California have similar requirements in their marijuana rules, which analysts have described as a “double-edged sword” that can boost employee retention and labor costs.
The state will continue to accept public feedback through Feb. 17 and make changes to the proposed rules based on the testimony. The final rules must be in place by July 1.
Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency Director Andrew Brisbo said the proposed labor peace agreement rule was intended “to make sure there’s as much stability as possible” in the burgeoning market. (Bridge photo by Riley Beggin)
Two years ago, advocates for recreational marijuana were hustling to persuade Michiganders to approve legalization while facing opposition from leading business groups and Republicans heading up state government.
Now some of those advocates are aligned with their former detractors, at least on one thing: opposition to requiring weed businesses to enter into a “labor peace agreement” with employees before receiving a license from the state.
Labor peace agreements usually make it easier for workplaces to become unionized because the employer typically agrees not to stand in the way of employees who want to organize. However, the agreement would also require workers to pledge not to boycott or strike.
The state Marijuana Regulatory Agency proposed including the requirement in rules that will govern the burgeoning industry by July 1 at the latest. Debate over the provision was at the center of an overflowing public hearing in Lansing on Wednesday, where marijuana lawyers, business owners and workers told regulators how they’d like to see those rules changed.
Advocates for business owners argued the rule was unpopular and possibly even illegal; workers spoke passionately about how it could help foster sustainable jobs in an industry often dominated by big businesses and wealthy investors.
Cody Dekker of Kalamazoo told regulators he is a budtender — the industry’s word for front-of-house employees who serve marijuana to customers — who was fired for trying to organize his fellow workers. He said he has a chronic health condition and lost his health insurance when he lost his job.
“Currently we as workers have no representation or power as the industry booms and some people make millions of dollars,” Dekker said. “I worked hard and played by the rules. Companies should do the same thing.”
Michigan’s recreational marijuana industry has made more than $17.7 million in sales since launching in December 2019, according to data from the MRA. When the market is fully established, the nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency has estimated annual sales will be about $949 million.
Another speaker, Josey Scoggin of Benton Harbor, said she’s worked in the marijuana industry for nine years. She recently was offered a job at a dispensary in Portage for $14 per hour and had to turn it down because she wouldn’t be able to afford an apartment in the area. “I’ve never been offered a 401(k) or health insurance,” she told officials.
If the rules are approved as they are now, the agreement would require the labor organization to agree not to picket, stop work, boycott or engage in “any other economic interference with the applicant’s business.”
Brisbo and staff listened to public testimony on proposed rules governing the marijuana industry Wednesday morning. Many spoke in support of a provision that would require employers to enter into labor peace agreements with workers. (Bridge photo by Riley Beggin)
The deal basically means “that the business owner won’t stand in the way of organization by the staff at the facility, and that the labor organization wouldn’t push the labor force into a strike situation,” said Marijuana Regulatory Agency director Andrew Brisbo.
Businesses are already operating on “pretty thin profit margins,” so the provision was intended to provide “as much stability as possible” in the market, Brisbo said, heading off “labor disruptions.”
Robin Schneider, executive director for the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association, the leading group advocating for Michigan marijuana businesses, told Brisbo and his staff Wednesday that most of her members are opposed to labor peace agreements.
“We certainly did not include it in the ballot initiative language,” she said of the successful 2018 campaign that legalized recreational marijuana.
Tim Beck, a longtime marijuana advocate who helped organize the 2008 initiative to legalize medical marijuana in Michigan, said the labor provision “is crazy” and will get struck down.
“I cannot in my wildest imagination understand why you came up with a cockamamie scheme like this.”
Their voices echo those who once opposed them in the drive to legalize recreational pot. The Republican-led Legislature passed a resolution condemning the labor agreement requirement, while leading business groups like the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and Small Business Association of Michigan warned it could have devastating consequences for businesses in other industries as well.
Rich Studley, CEO of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, told Bridge he was shocked about “the extraordinary precedent that would be set” by the rule due to the large number of businesses that must get licensure from the state in order to operate.
The provision is “at best extra-legal… and at worst it is an indirect approach to circumventing or watering down and repealing Right to Work,” Studley said, referencing a 2012 law that made it illegal for a worker to be required to join a union as a condition of employment.
“Today they’re seeking to impose this requirement on a new industry. Who’s next?”
Little is predictable in the rapidly expanding marijuana industry, and the impact of such a provision isn’t entirely clear. But other states such as New York and California have similar requirements in their marijuana rules, which analysts have described as a “double-edged sword” that can boost employee retention and labor costs.
The state will continue to accept public feedback through Feb. 17 and make changes to the proposed rules based on the testimony. The final rules must be in place by July 1.
Michigan's first recreational marijuana delivery service launches
Michigan’s first recreational marijuana home delivery service launched this week.
Lume Cannabis Company in northern Michigan will serve 11 ZIP codes across Osceola, Wexford, and Mecosta counties. The big menu includes 20 varieties of flower, numerous cartridges and pods, extracts, topicals, and pre-rolls.
“We are excited to announce Lume Delivery, our adult-use delivery service, is up and running in Evart,” Doug Hellyar, president and COO of Lume Cannabis Company, said in a news release. “Our top priority is providing an unmatched experience that makes it easy for our customers to access the broad variety of high-quality cannabis products we offer. Allowing customers to order online and have their order delivered to their doorstep will be a convenient option for customers and we expect it to be in great demand.”
The minimum purchase for delivery is $125.
The Marijuana Regulatory Agency has approved 13 other delivery services across the state, including Herbology Cannabis Co. in River Rouge. The others are in Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Bay City, Morenci, Muskegon, Pinconning, and Rogers City.
Those delivery services have not opened yet, largely because of a temporary shortage on cannabis.
Lume, which operates dispensaries in Evart, Owosso, Honor, and Kalamazoo, plans to open seven more stores by April and 100 across the state by 2024. On Saturday, Lume is opening its first medical marijuana dispensary in southeast Michigan at 738 S. Main St. in Adrian. By April, Lume plans to open dispensaries in Big Rapids, Petoskey, Negaunee, Walled Lake, and Mackinaw City.
“At Lume, our goal is to be the No. 1 cannabis operator in Michigan and having a strong presence in Southeast Michigan is key to achieving that goal,” Hellyar said in a news release. “We look forward to introducing our brand of high-quality cannabis products to patients in Adrian and beyond.”
Michigan’s first recreational marijuana home delivery service launched this week.
Lume Cannabis Company in northern Michigan will serve 11 ZIP codes across Osceola, Wexford, and Mecosta counties. The big menu includes 20 varieties of flower, numerous cartridges and pods, extracts, topicals, and pre-rolls.
“We are excited to announce Lume Delivery, our adult-use delivery service, is up and running in Evart,” Doug Hellyar, president and COO of Lume Cannabis Company, said in a news release. “Our top priority is providing an unmatched experience that makes it easy for our customers to access the broad variety of high-quality cannabis products we offer. Allowing customers to order online and have their order delivered to their doorstep will be a convenient option for customers and we expect it to be in great demand.”
The minimum purchase for delivery is $125.
The Marijuana Regulatory Agency has approved 13 other delivery services across the state, including Herbology Cannabis Co. in River Rouge. The others are in Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Bay City, Morenci, Muskegon, Pinconning, and Rogers City.
Those delivery services have not opened yet, largely because of a temporary shortage on cannabis.
Lume, which operates dispensaries in Evart, Owosso, Honor, and Kalamazoo, plans to open seven more stores by April and 100 across the state by 2024. On Saturday, Lume is opening its first medical marijuana dispensary in southeast Michigan at 738 S. Main St. in Adrian. By April, Lume plans to open dispensaries in Big Rapids, Petoskey, Negaunee, Walled Lake, and Mackinaw City.
“At Lume, our goal is to be the No. 1 cannabis operator in Michigan and having a strong presence in Southeast Michigan is key to achieving that goal,” Hellyar said in a news release. “We look forward to introducing our brand of high-quality cannabis products to patients in Adrian and beyond.”
UPDATE: Lansing City Clerk approves 24 recreational marijuana licenses
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)– The Lansing City Clerk approved 24 marijuana licenses on Monday.
Chris Swope sent out a press release announcing the approval of 11 Marijuana Recreational Retail Licenses, 10 Recreational Grow Licenses (at 6 locations), and 1 Recreational Processor License.
However, these licenses will still need approval from the State of Michigan.
“So the ones we were able to approve today are the ones that have already been approved on the medical side 8 of them are already fully licensed they should be able to get into the state licensing process and get that license back to us for their final license pretty quickly,” said Swope.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)– The Lansing City Clerk approved 24 marijuana licenses on Monday.
Chris Swope sent out a press release announcing the approval of 11 Marijuana Recreational Retail Licenses, 10 Recreational Grow Licenses (at 6 locations), and 1 Recreational Processor License.
However, these licenses will still need approval from the State of Michigan.
“So the ones we were able to approve today are the ones that have already been approved on the medical side 8 of them are already fully licensed they should be able to get into the state licensing process and get that license back to us for their final license pretty quickly,” said Swope.
"
"Albert cited studies showing that too many women continue to use marijuana while pregnant."
But are there any studies that conclusively support the claims of danger?
Newly enacted laws now require warning labels on Michigan marijuana products
LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Marijuana sold in Michigan shops will have to have labels warning pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers about the health risks for their fetuses and infants under newly enacted laws.
Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist signed the two bills Wednesday because Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was out of the state.
The labels must be placed on legal recreational and medical marijuana products and warn that use by pregnant or breastfeeding women may result in fetal injury, preterm birth, low birth weight or development problems for children.
The laws also require that an informational pamphlet be made available at every point of sale. It must include safety information related to use by minors and include the poison control hotline number — in case children accidentally eat candy or brownies that contain marijuana.
One of the bill sponsors, Republican Rep. Thomas Albert of Lowell, said the industry has changed people’s perceptions of the drug.
“Many people believe it’s perfectly safe, and that’s just not true,” he said. “These labels will better inform parents of risks they may not have previously considered and serve as an added safety measure to protect vulnerable children.”
Albert cited studies showing that too many women continue to use marijuana while pregnant.
"Albert cited studies showing that too many women continue to use marijuana while pregnant."
But are there any studies that conclusively support the claims of danger?
Newly enacted laws now require warning labels on Michigan marijuana products
LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Marijuana sold in Michigan shops will have to have labels warning pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers about the health risks for their fetuses and infants under newly enacted laws.
Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist signed the two bills Wednesday because Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was out of the state.
The labels must be placed on legal recreational and medical marijuana products and warn that use by pregnant or breastfeeding women may result in fetal injury, preterm birth, low birth weight or development problems for children.
The laws also require that an informational pamphlet be made available at every point of sale. It must include safety information related to use by minors and include the poison control hotline number — in case children accidentally eat candy or brownies that contain marijuana.
One of the bill sponsors, Republican Rep. Thomas Albert of Lowell, said the industry has changed people’s perceptions of the drug.
“Many people believe it’s perfectly safe, and that’s just not true,” he said. “These labels will better inform parents of risks they may not have previously considered and serve as an added safety measure to protect vulnerable children.”
Albert cited studies showing that too many women continue to use marijuana while pregnant.
Warren and Roseville battle over proposed medical marijuana facility
WARREN, Mich. (WXYZ) — You may have seen digital billboards along Groesbeck Highway in Roseville, opposing a proposed medical marijuana facility on Warren.
Now officials in Warren and Roseville are speaking out.
The people I spoke to are split about this proposed medical marijuana facility. However, officials from both Warren and Roseville say they don’t want this provisioning near the neighborhood.
It brings business to the area I like it,” says Rosellvile resident Sean Downey. “Some people are mad because it’s close to schools and children but it’s not like their giving the drugs to the children. It’s legal in our state, mostly and really, I don’t have a problem with it.”
It’s an issue that’s garnered a lot of attention - a proposed medical facility in the area of Hayes and 11 Mile in Warren near the Roseville border.
“If the negative effects requiring a 500 foot buffer from residential in Warren are necessary for their residents, they should be equally applicable to our residents in the city of Roseville,” says Timothy Tomlinson, city attorney for Roseville.
According to a Warren city ordinance a marijuana facility must be at least 500 feet from where people live, it doesn’t apply for Roseville residents who live across the street from the proposed facility.
“Overall I have been concerned about too many marijuana facilities being located next to residential areas and that’s why I vetoed a number of these proposals,” says Warren Mayor Jim Fouts. “I think it should be located in an industrial area or an area away from residential neighborhoods.”
But both Roseville and Warren city officials agree. The facility shouldn’t be near homes or neighborhoods.
After 7 Action News attended a city council meeting last month where residents voiced their displeasure about the facility, Warren City Council held an emergency meeting to discuss plans for the proposed facility.
Roseville residents say more needs to be discussed
“I think they definitely need to put the breaks on before it gets out of hand, they’ve got to have regulations,” says Dan Lindquist. “You don’t need to open the door and there’s one and you go down the street and there’s another one.”
We’re told Defend Roseville paid for the billboards.
The Warren City Council tabled a decision on the facility until March 9.
WARREN, Mich. (WXYZ) — You may have seen digital billboards along Groesbeck Highway in Roseville, opposing a proposed medical marijuana facility on Warren.
Now officials in Warren and Roseville are speaking out.
The people I spoke to are split about this proposed medical marijuana facility. However, officials from both Warren and Roseville say they don’t want this provisioning near the neighborhood.
It brings business to the area I like it,” says Rosellvile resident Sean Downey. “Some people are mad because it’s close to schools and children but it’s not like their giving the drugs to the children. It’s legal in our state, mostly and really, I don’t have a problem with it.”
It’s an issue that’s garnered a lot of attention - a proposed medical facility in the area of Hayes and 11 Mile in Warren near the Roseville border.
“If the negative effects requiring a 500 foot buffer from residential in Warren are necessary for their residents, they should be equally applicable to our residents in the city of Roseville,” says Timothy Tomlinson, city attorney for Roseville.
According to a Warren city ordinance a marijuana facility must be at least 500 feet from where people live, it doesn’t apply for Roseville residents who live across the street from the proposed facility.
“Overall I have been concerned about too many marijuana facilities being located next to residential areas and that’s why I vetoed a number of these proposals,” says Warren Mayor Jim Fouts. “I think it should be located in an industrial area or an area away from residential neighborhoods.”
But both Roseville and Warren city officials agree. The facility shouldn’t be near homes or neighborhoods.
After 7 Action News attended a city council meeting last month where residents voiced their displeasure about the facility, Warren City Council held an emergency meeting to discuss plans for the proposed facility.
Roseville residents say more needs to be discussed
“I think they definitely need to put the breaks on before it gets out of hand, they’ve got to have regulations,” says Dan Lindquist. “You don’t need to open the door and there’s one and you go down the street and there’s another one.”
We’re told Defend Roseville paid for the billboards.
The Warren City Council tabled a decision on the facility until March 9.
University in Upper Peninsula opens cannabis research center
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. - A university in Michigan's Upper Peninsula has opened a 2,600-square-foot-facility for hands-on experience and research related to the cannabis industry.
The Mining Journal reports that the ribbon cutting for Lake Superior State University's Cannabis Center of Excellence was Friday.
University officials say the idea is to train undergraduate students as “job-ready chemists” with' “innovative experience.”
The school announced a cannabis chemistry program last year. Michigan allows marijuana for medicinal and recreational use, which became legal in December.
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. - A university in Michigan's Upper Peninsula has opened a 2,600-square-foot-facility for hands-on experience and research related to the cannabis industry.
The Mining Journal reports that the ribbon cutting for Lake Superior State University's Cannabis Center of Excellence was Friday.
University officials say the idea is to train undergraduate students as “job-ready chemists” with' “innovative experience.”
The school announced a cannabis chemistry program last year. Michigan allows marijuana for medicinal and recreational use, which became legal in December.
I actually watched the 'state of the city' address last night and the mayor has some really valid ideas for the city... and I feel this is one of them.
Plan would mandate half of pot businesses in Detroit for residents
Detroit — The city is working on a law to ensure that at least half of the licensed recreational marijuana businesses operating in Detroit are owned by residents.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is expected to detail the proposal before an invitation-only crowd during his seventh State of the City address on Tuesday evening inside Flex-N-Gate, an east side auto parts manufacturing plant.
The second-term mayor has collaborated with Detroit City Councilman James Tate on a component of an ordinance focused on equity in Detroit's marijuana industry and rules for how recreational pot shops will operate.
"Our position is going to be that we will approve recreational marijuana being sold in Detroit only under an ordinance where half of the businesses are owned by Detroiters," Duggan told The Detroit News in a Monday interview.
"I'm sure it's going to cause some anxiety. But the fact of the matter is, if we sit by and do nothing, we're going to wake up in three years and 90% of the wealth created by this industry will flow outside the city."
Voters in Detroit and across the state approved a ballot proposal in November 2018 to legalize adult-use of recreational marijuana. More than 1,400 municipalities since have instituted bans to block recreational marijuana businesses from opening in their communities.
In Detroit, officials agreed to temporarily prohibit adult-use marijuana establishments through Jan. 31. Last month, that opt-out period was postponed until the spring as Tate's office continues sorting out the key elements of the recreational marijuana ordinance.
Tate has said that the potential billion-dollar industry should have a "pathway for Detroiters to be gainfully employed." A draft ordinance prepared in the fall, Tate has said, didn't go far enough to help residents of the post-bankrupt city.
In July 2018, the council approved a law that capped allowance to 75 sites for medical marijuana sales and laid out where they could locate. Today, there are about 40 in Detroit. Only four are owned and operated by city residents, Duggan said.
Given what's happening in the suburbs, where the majority of communities have banned recreational sales, the mayor said Detroit will be the center of retail sales.
"We have an obligation to the people of the city to be able to buy marijuana legally, but the question is: Who sells it?" Duggan said. "I just want Detroiters to get a fair share of the wealth that's generated by this opportunity."
The ordinance, if approved, would not affect the medical marijuana businesses operating in Detroit. Going forward, he said, the 50% requirement would apply for licenses for medical, recreational or so-called microbusinesses.
Some marijuana advocates, city residents and prospective shop owners have applauded the city's efforts to set a standard for inclusion. But others have been frustrated with the delays they say are causing hardships.
Tate on Monday reiterated that the law is "better right than rushed."
A group of Detroit businesses sued the state of Michigan last week in a bid to relaunch recreational marijuana sales in Detroit.
The lawsuit filed Thursday focuses on the city not having an ordinance in place barring adult-use marijuana businesses on Nov. 1, when the state began accepting license applications, and a state rule that seeks a local clerk's signature on an application.
Detroit's council approved its temporary ordinance barring recreational marijuana businesses effective Nov. 12, 11 days after the state application window began.
Tate's proposed ordinance also is expected to address those who qualify as "equity applicants," including those who have lived in the city for a specific number of years or individuals convicted of low-level marijuana crimes as well as their dependents and parents, he said.
Tate's office has convened workgroups to develop concepts and identify the challenges faced by African Americans and other minorities who are seeking to get into business and avenues to help, including a reduction in application fees.
A fund to aid with start-up and technical assistance also is being considered. It's unclear where the dollars would come from or how such a fund would be managed.
Tate at noon Friday will host a Facebook live discussion on including a social equity component in the law and address questions about the city's interim opt-out.
"We've seen how this industry has the ability to change lives," Tate said. "We have to make sure that Detroit is taking advantage of this time in history. We will not have this opportunity again as we move forward."
The state's Marijuana Regulatory Agency issued the first recreational license in November. Recreational sales began Dec. 1.
Currently, 97 recreational licenses have been issued in the state, said David Harns, a spokesman for the state's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, in an email Monday.
From Dec. 1, 2019, through Feb. 23, 2020, adult-use retail sales totaled $27,637,460, Harns said.
Duggan said he expects Detroit will be sued over the proposed licensing policy. But he and Detroit's law department believe they are on solid footing, he said.
"We could be just like most of the suburbs and say, 'No licenses, period,'" the mayor said. "We think if we have a right to say none at all, we have a right to say we'll approve them so long as Detroiters get an equal share."
Harns said any residency requirements for licensing "would be decided and enforced at the local level."
Duggan and Tate say it's unclear whether the proposed ordinance will be completed prior to the March 31 opt-out deadline.
"It may seem like a slow process for some but these are very intentional conversations we're having with those who have made their way to the industry but have seen that there's a ceiling that has nothing to do with abilities, and more with resources and connections," Tate said.
"We're looking at leveling the playing field."
Duggan is also expected to reiterate Tuesday the transformation of the long-vacant Michigan Central Depot in Corktown that's undergoing a $350 million makeover by Ford Motor Co., as well as the new Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV plant that promises 5,000 jobs.
Duggan hinted Monday that a number of other major projects are "in conversations" but said he'll leave it to the companies involved to announce them when the time is right.
The mayor said Detroit is competing against the Metro Detroit suburbs and other states for industry, and despite rhetoric attacking corporations over tax breaks, the city will continue to support abatements to stay competitive.
"We're going to keep partnering with companies who give preference to hiring Detroiters, and I'm glad to give them incentives to come in if you give our residents incentives to work," he said.
Separately, Duggan said he will convene a series of eight forums across Detroit in March and April to educate residents on Michigan's no-fault auto reform and the rate cuts afforded to residents once the law kicks in on July 2.
A component of the law, he said, provides that individuals with health care from their employer don't have to pay for it a second time on their car insurance.
"I'm going to tell our 9,000 employees tomorrow night that July 2 most of them are going to see significantly more money in their pockets," he said. "The people in Detroit have waited a long time for that."
Plan would mandate half of pot businesses in Detroit for residents
Detroit — The city is working on a law to ensure that at least half of the licensed recreational marijuana businesses operating in Detroit are owned by residents.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is expected to detail the proposal before an invitation-only crowd during his seventh State of the City address on Tuesday evening inside Flex-N-Gate, an east side auto parts manufacturing plant.
The second-term mayor has collaborated with Detroit City Councilman James Tate on a component of an ordinance focused on equity in Detroit's marijuana industry and rules for how recreational pot shops will operate.
"Our position is going to be that we will approve recreational marijuana being sold in Detroit only under an ordinance where half of the businesses are owned by Detroiters," Duggan told The Detroit News in a Monday interview.
"I'm sure it's going to cause some anxiety. But the fact of the matter is, if we sit by and do nothing, we're going to wake up in three years and 90% of the wealth created by this industry will flow outside the city."
Voters in Detroit and across the state approved a ballot proposal in November 2018 to legalize adult-use of recreational marijuana. More than 1,400 municipalities since have instituted bans to block recreational marijuana businesses from opening in their communities.
In Detroit, officials agreed to temporarily prohibit adult-use marijuana establishments through Jan. 31. Last month, that opt-out period was postponed until the spring as Tate's office continues sorting out the key elements of the recreational marijuana ordinance.
Tate has said that the potential billion-dollar industry should have a "pathway for Detroiters to be gainfully employed." A draft ordinance prepared in the fall, Tate has said, didn't go far enough to help residents of the post-bankrupt city.
In July 2018, the council approved a law that capped allowance to 75 sites for medical marijuana sales and laid out where they could locate. Today, there are about 40 in Detroit. Only four are owned and operated by city residents, Duggan said.
Given what's happening in the suburbs, where the majority of communities have banned recreational sales, the mayor said Detroit will be the center of retail sales.
"We have an obligation to the people of the city to be able to buy marijuana legally, but the question is: Who sells it?" Duggan said. "I just want Detroiters to get a fair share of the wealth that's generated by this opportunity."
The ordinance, if approved, would not affect the medical marijuana businesses operating in Detroit. Going forward, he said, the 50% requirement would apply for licenses for medical, recreational or so-called microbusinesses.
Some marijuana advocates, city residents and prospective shop owners have applauded the city's efforts to set a standard for inclusion. But others have been frustrated with the delays they say are causing hardships.
Tate on Monday reiterated that the law is "better right than rushed."
A group of Detroit businesses sued the state of Michigan last week in a bid to relaunch recreational marijuana sales in Detroit.
The lawsuit filed Thursday focuses on the city not having an ordinance in place barring adult-use marijuana businesses on Nov. 1, when the state began accepting license applications, and a state rule that seeks a local clerk's signature on an application.
Detroit's council approved its temporary ordinance barring recreational marijuana businesses effective Nov. 12, 11 days after the state application window began.
Tate's proposed ordinance also is expected to address those who qualify as "equity applicants," including those who have lived in the city for a specific number of years or individuals convicted of low-level marijuana crimes as well as their dependents and parents, he said.
Tate's office has convened workgroups to develop concepts and identify the challenges faced by African Americans and other minorities who are seeking to get into business and avenues to help, including a reduction in application fees.
A fund to aid with start-up and technical assistance also is being considered. It's unclear where the dollars would come from or how such a fund would be managed.
Tate at noon Friday will host a Facebook live discussion on including a social equity component in the law and address questions about the city's interim opt-out.
"We've seen how this industry has the ability to change lives," Tate said. "We have to make sure that Detroit is taking advantage of this time in history. We will not have this opportunity again as we move forward."
The state's Marijuana Regulatory Agency issued the first recreational license in November. Recreational sales began Dec. 1.
Currently, 97 recreational licenses have been issued in the state, said David Harns, a spokesman for the state's Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, in an email Monday.
From Dec. 1, 2019, through Feb. 23, 2020, adult-use retail sales totaled $27,637,460, Harns said.
Duggan said he expects Detroit will be sued over the proposed licensing policy. But he and Detroit's law department believe they are on solid footing, he said.
"We could be just like most of the suburbs and say, 'No licenses, period,'" the mayor said. "We think if we have a right to say none at all, we have a right to say we'll approve them so long as Detroiters get an equal share."
Harns said any residency requirements for licensing "would be decided and enforced at the local level."
Duggan and Tate say it's unclear whether the proposed ordinance will be completed prior to the March 31 opt-out deadline.
"It may seem like a slow process for some but these are very intentional conversations we're having with those who have made their way to the industry but have seen that there's a ceiling that has nothing to do with abilities, and more with resources and connections," Tate said.
"We're looking at leveling the playing field."
Duggan is also expected to reiterate Tuesday the transformation of the long-vacant Michigan Central Depot in Corktown that's undergoing a $350 million makeover by Ford Motor Co., as well as the new Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV plant that promises 5,000 jobs.
Duggan hinted Monday that a number of other major projects are "in conversations" but said he'll leave it to the companies involved to announce them when the time is right.
The mayor said Detroit is competing against the Metro Detroit suburbs and other states for industry, and despite rhetoric attacking corporations over tax breaks, the city will continue to support abatements to stay competitive.
"We're going to keep partnering with companies who give preference to hiring Detroiters, and I'm glad to give them incentives to come in if you give our residents incentives to work," he said.
Separately, Duggan said he will convene a series of eight forums across Detroit in March and April to educate residents on Michigan's no-fault auto reform and the rate cuts afforded to residents once the law kicks in on July 2.
A component of the law, he said, provides that individuals with health care from their employer don't have to pay for it a second time on their car insurance.
"I'm going to tell our 9,000 employees tomorrow night that July 2 most of them are going to see significantly more money in their pockets," he said. "The people in Detroit have waited a long time for that."
Grand Rapids halts recreational marijuana decision for the next six months
The City Commissioners met Tuesday and voted to halt any action regarding recreational marijuana for the next six months.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The future of recreational marijuana in Grand Rapids is at a standstill after a city commission meeting Tuesday.
City commissioners voted to halt any action regarding recreational pot for the next six months in a morning meeting.
Commissioners also voted to put a moratorium on accepting medical marijuana licenses.
Last month, the city said it would start accepting applications for recreational marijuana shops on April 20, because it is the end of a six-month period that city official use to research, gather public input and develop and adopt zoning regulations.
During the morning meeting, city commissioners said they wanted more time to modify the ordinances to be more beneficial to marginalized communities and local entrepreneurs who are interested in entering the industry.
However, the vote was not unanimous and last night the commission reconvened. The second meeting gave community members the chance to voice their opinions.
Several faith leaders in attendance advocated for the moratorium, saying they didn't want recreational marijuana businesses in their neighborhoods or near churches and other places of worship. However, recreational marijuana activists and potential license holders said the moratorium was a roadblock for interested business owners.
After an hours-long discussion, commissioners were unable to come to an agreement on the medical marijuana moratorium -- which led to the moratorium being thrown out.
The city also could not agree on a date for a public hearing on recreational marijuana.
Grand Rapids currently has one medical marijuana shop, Fluresh on Phillips Avenue SW. It opened earlier this month.
The City Commissioners met Tuesday and voted to halt any action regarding recreational marijuana for the next six months.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The future of recreational marijuana in Grand Rapids is at a standstill after a city commission meeting Tuesday.
City commissioners voted to halt any action regarding recreational pot for the next six months in a morning meeting.
Commissioners also voted to put a moratorium on accepting medical marijuana licenses.
Last month, the city said it would start accepting applications for recreational marijuana shops on April 20, because it is the end of a six-month period that city official use to research, gather public input and develop and adopt zoning regulations.
During the morning meeting, city commissioners said they wanted more time to modify the ordinances to be more beneficial to marginalized communities and local entrepreneurs who are interested in entering the industry.
However, the vote was not unanimous and last night the commission reconvened. The second meeting gave community members the chance to voice their opinions.
Several faith leaders in attendance advocated for the moratorium, saying they didn't want recreational marijuana businesses in their neighborhoods or near churches and other places of worship. However, recreational marijuana activists and potential license holders said the moratorium was a roadblock for interested business owners.
After an hours-long discussion, commissioners were unable to come to an agreement on the medical marijuana moratorium -- which led to the moratorium being thrown out.
The city also could not agree on a date for a public hearing on recreational marijuana.
Grand Rapids currently has one medical marijuana shop, Fluresh on Phillips Avenue SW. It opened earlier this month.
Hoosiers are buying lots of marijuana in Michigan - and bringing it back to Indiana
Customers lineup early to buy marijuana at the ReLEAF Center in Niles, Michigan. (WTHR)
NILES, Mich. (WTHR) — The line is long — more than an hour long — and no one is complaining. In fact, it's just the opposite. Most of the people who are lined up are talking and laughing. There is a sense of anticipation.
Among more than two dozen people in line is a college professor and a real estate agent, a mechanic and a human resources director, a nurse and a highway construction worker, a high school football coach and a restaurant manager. All of them are lined up at the ReLEAF Center in Niles, Michigan, to buy the same thing: marijuana.
You’ve probably heard that marijuana is a big deal in Michigan right now, since the state allowed dispensaries to start selling recreational marijuana a few weeks ago. What you might not have heard is where most of the customers lined up at the ReLEAF Center are coming from. On the day that 13 Investigates visited the dispensary, 19 of the 26 cars in the parking lot had Indiana license plates.
“I’m buying it for recreational purposes but [benefit from] its medicinal qualities,” said Jeff, a resident of LaPorte County, Ind. “Anywhere from pain management to general anxiety, it helps me a lot. It’s worth the drive.”
Jeff asked WTHR not to show his identity because, like many other people waiting to buy legal marijuana in Michigan, he planned to drive back over the border to use it in a state where it is not legal.
“I’m using it in the safety of my own home,” he said.
Marijuana dispensaries as far away as Ann Arbor told WTHR they are shocked at the number of customers willing to drive more than one hundred miles from Indiana.
“Indiana is 100 percent our number one out-of-state customer … and they cross the border with it,” said Summer Ransom, president of SkyMint, which currently operates six marijuana retail stores in Michigan. “I mean, who doesn't want to come and buy legal — legal — marijuana?”
Despite polls that show a large percentage of Hoosiers support legalizing medical marijuana – and a majority of Hoosiers who also support decriminalizing all marijuana – most state leaders are not yet ready to follow the lead of Michigan, Ohio and Illinois, where millions of people can now use marijuana legally. And some of those neighboring states that figured out a way to legalize marijuana did so by overcoming the same political obstacles now facing Indiana.
Customers lineup early to buy marijuana at the ReLEAF Center in Niles, Michigan. (WTHR)
NILES, Mich. (WTHR) — The line is long — more than an hour long — and no one is complaining. In fact, it's just the opposite. Most of the people who are lined up are talking and laughing. There is a sense of anticipation.
Among more than two dozen people in line is a college professor and a real estate agent, a mechanic and a human resources director, a nurse and a highway construction worker, a high school football coach and a restaurant manager. All of them are lined up at the ReLEAF Center in Niles, Michigan, to buy the same thing: marijuana.
You’ve probably heard that marijuana is a big deal in Michigan right now, since the state allowed dispensaries to start selling recreational marijuana a few weeks ago. What you might not have heard is where most of the customers lined up at the ReLEAF Center are coming from. On the day that 13 Investigates visited the dispensary, 19 of the 26 cars in the parking lot had Indiana license plates.
“I’m buying it for recreational purposes but [benefit from] its medicinal qualities,” said Jeff, a resident of LaPorte County, Ind. “Anywhere from pain management to general anxiety, it helps me a lot. It’s worth the drive.”
Jeff asked WTHR not to show his identity because, like many other people waiting to buy legal marijuana in Michigan, he planned to drive back over the border to use it in a state where it is not legal.
“I’m using it in the safety of my own home,” he said.
Marijuana dispensaries as far away as Ann Arbor told WTHR they are shocked at the number of customers willing to drive more than one hundred miles from Indiana.
“Indiana is 100 percent our number one out-of-state customer … and they cross the border with it,” said Summer Ransom, president of SkyMint, which currently operates six marijuana retail stores in Michigan. “I mean, who doesn't want to come and buy legal — legal — marijuana?”
Despite polls that show a large percentage of Hoosiers support legalizing medical marijuana – and a majority of Hoosiers who also support decriminalizing all marijuana – most state leaders are not yet ready to follow the lead of Michigan, Ohio and Illinois, where millions of people can now use marijuana legally. And some of those neighboring states that figured out a way to legalize marijuana did so by overcoming the same political obstacles now facing Indiana.
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Dispensaries In Michigan Sue State Over Licensing Applications
The state turned down their licenses to sell recreational marijuana in Detroit, Inkster and Traverse City. Now several businesses are suing saying the state violated the law.
Their case is based on the idea that timing - is everything. They say they got their applications in before their cities decided to opt out of allowing recreational marijuana dispensaries, so their application should be approved.
“What we do is provide safe access to tested products,” said Stuart Carter, Owner of Utopia Gardens on East Lafayette Street in Detroit.
Carter says right now they can do that for medical marijuana cardholders, but not adults over 21 who want to buy marijuana as state law allows for recreation. His application was denied.
“The state did not honor the letter of the law by denying us our license,” said Carter.
Here’s what happened. In 2018 voters across Michigan decided to make recreational marijuana legal for adults 21 and over. The law said cities could opt out of allowing recreational marijuana, but if they took no action businesses could apply starting November 1 2019.
Carter applied right away. After he applied, the city council voted to opt out.
His attorney Denise Pollicella from Cannabis Attorneys of Michigan says his application should be valid because of his timing. That is why they are suing the state.
“What the city did was completely appropriate. The city did not opt in or out and had a year to do so, and did not do anything until November 12,” explains Pollicella.
The state has not commented on this lawsuit that is expected to be filed this week. 7 Action News is told eight Detroit marijuana businesses are involved as well as businesses in Inkster and Traverse City.
With recreational pot dispensaries in other cities, Carter says his lack of a license is driving business to other cities or the black market.
“It has created a loophole to allow the black market to provide crappy product to the public,” he said.
City leaders here in Detroit say they believe recreational marijuana dispensaries will soon have a legal path.
Detroit’s City Attorney Lawrence Garcia tells 7 Action News the city is working on a new ordinance to allow and regulate recreational marijuana. It is simply not ready yet.
The state turned down their licenses to sell recreational marijuana in Detroit, Inkster and Traverse City. Now several businesses are suing saying the state violated the law.
Their case is based on the idea that timing - is everything. They say they got their applications in before their cities decided to opt out of allowing recreational marijuana dispensaries, so their application should be approved.
“What we do is provide safe access to tested products,” said Stuart Carter, Owner of Utopia Gardens on East Lafayette Street in Detroit.
Carter says right now they can do that for medical marijuana cardholders, but not adults over 21 who want to buy marijuana as state law allows for recreation. His application was denied.
“The state did not honor the letter of the law by denying us our license,” said Carter.
Here’s what happened. In 2018 voters across Michigan decided to make recreational marijuana legal for adults 21 and over. The law said cities could opt out of allowing recreational marijuana, but if they took no action businesses could apply starting November 1 2019.
Carter applied right away. After he applied, the city council voted to opt out.
His attorney Denise Pollicella from Cannabis Attorneys of Michigan says his application should be valid because of his timing. That is why they are suing the state.
“What the city did was completely appropriate. The city did not opt in or out and had a year to do so, and did not do anything until November 12,” explains Pollicella.
The state has not commented on this lawsuit that is expected to be filed this week. 7 Action News is told eight Detroit marijuana businesses are involved as well as businesses in Inkster and Traverse City.
With recreational pot dispensaries in other cities, Carter says his lack of a license is driving business to other cities or the black market.
“It has created a loophole to allow the black market to provide crappy product to the public,” he said.
City leaders here in Detroit say they believe recreational marijuana dispensaries will soon have a legal path.
Detroit’s City Attorney Lawrence Garcia tells 7 Action News the city is working on a new ordinance to allow and regulate recreational marijuana. It is simply not ready yet.
Michigan Lawmakers May Ask Congress To Clarify Legality of Marijuana
Despite progress, there remains a disconnect between federal and state marijuana laws.
Lawmakers in Michigan are considering a resolution that would bring the awkward tension over marijuana between the states and federal government to the forefront.
Voters in Michigan passed a measure in 2018 legalizing recreational pot, bringing the state in the ranks of the nearly dozen other states that have ended the prohibition on weed. But cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I narcotic under the Controlled Substances Act, effectively making it illegal nationwide. And while states like Colorado have established a marijuana market largely free of interference from the feds, the disconnect looms over the policies.
The bill being taken up in Michigan’s state House would seek to redress that by formally asking the United States Congress to “clarify its position on the legality of marijuana” under the Controlled Substances Act. “Despite federal law criminalizing marijuana, many states have exercised their authority to enact marijuana laws that reflect the needs and interests of their citizens,” the bill reads.
It continues: “The federal government’s lack of clarity and inconsistency in its interpretation of the legality of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 has created confusion and uncertainty for states legislating marijuana operations.” The conflict between state and federal law, the bill says, “affects law enforcement, banking, taxation, and zoning.”
The Bill Could Go All The Way To The Top
The bill is sponsored by Republican state Rep. Jeff Yaroch. According to MLive.com, it is scheduled to be debated by the state Judiciary Committee on Tuesday. Should it make it out of the committee, it will then go to the full House. If it were to pass the legislature, the resolution would be delivered to members of Congress and President Donald Trump.
Michigan voters passed a measure in 2018 legalizing recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older by a margin of 56 percent-44 percent. The law took effect last year, with weed sales starting in the first week of December. Despite having only five dispensaries open that first week, marijuana sales still reached nearly $1.63 million.
The staggering demand caught some dispensaries off guard, with one store even running out of marijuana flower in just the first two days of opening. Michigan became the 10th state to legalize recreational pot use with its passage of the ballot measure in 2018. Ten years prior, voters there approved a medical marijuana program.
Despite progress, there remains a disconnect between federal and state marijuana laws.
Lawmakers in Michigan are considering a resolution that would bring the awkward tension over marijuana between the states and federal government to the forefront.
Voters in Michigan passed a measure in 2018 legalizing recreational pot, bringing the state in the ranks of the nearly dozen other states that have ended the prohibition on weed. But cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I narcotic under the Controlled Substances Act, effectively making it illegal nationwide. And while states like Colorado have established a marijuana market largely free of interference from the feds, the disconnect looms over the policies.
The bill being taken up in Michigan’s state House would seek to redress that by formally asking the United States Congress to “clarify its position on the legality of marijuana” under the Controlled Substances Act. “Despite federal law criminalizing marijuana, many states have exercised their authority to enact marijuana laws that reflect the needs and interests of their citizens,” the bill reads.
It continues: “The federal government’s lack of clarity and inconsistency in its interpretation of the legality of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 has created confusion and uncertainty for states legislating marijuana operations.” The conflict between state and federal law, the bill says, “affects law enforcement, banking, taxation, and zoning.”
The Bill Could Go All The Way To The Top
The bill is sponsored by Republican state Rep. Jeff Yaroch. According to MLive.com, it is scheduled to be debated by the state Judiciary Committee on Tuesday. Should it make it out of the committee, it will then go to the full House. If it were to pass the legislature, the resolution would be delivered to members of Congress and President Donald Trump.
Michigan voters passed a measure in 2018 legalizing recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older by a margin of 56 percent-44 percent. The law took effect last year, with weed sales starting in the first week of December. Despite having only five dispensaries open that first week, marijuana sales still reached nearly $1.63 million.
The staggering demand caught some dispensaries off guard, with one store even running out of marijuana flower in just the first two days of opening. Michigan became the 10th state to legalize recreational pot use with its passage of the ballot measure in 2018. Ten years prior, voters there approved a medical marijuana program.
Crowd gathers for first sale of recreational marijuana in Lansing
Homegrown Cannabis Co., at the corner of South Pennsylvania Avenue and Jolly Road, was the first location in the city to offer adult-use products, although it had been operating as a medical provisioning center for more than a year.
Sitting in a red folding chair just outside Homegrown's front doors, bundled against the 20-degree weather, Campeau said he arrived at the shop around 7:30 a.m.
The store was scheduled to open at 9 a.m.
"I grew up in the 60s," he said. "This is, to me, a major event."
Before there was a legal way to use recreational marijuana, he thought "the laws were a little bit ridiculous and definitely a little bit too harsh."
By 9 a.m., more than 50 people had lined up behind Campeau to enter Homegrown, the queue wrapping around the building and stretching into the parking lot.
When doors opened, customers were ushered into Homegrown's lobby, where a DJ played music. Eventually, the first 10 customers were led into the showroom.
Campeau spent some time perusing the merchandise, as additional customers entered the space and made their selections.
One woman spent more than $200 on edible gummies.
Eventually, Campeau made his selections: a brownie and "this and that."
"It's nice knowing I don't have to hire a lawyer," he said.
By 10 a.m., more than 100 people had entered Homegrown's doors.
A second Lansing retailer, Pure Options, has its licenses secured and was set to start adult-use sales at 6 p.m. Friday at 5815 S. Pennsylvania Ave. Their regular hours are 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. every day.
Homegrown will be open from 9 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. every day but Sunday, when hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Purchases are cash only.
Shiawassee County also has a legal marijuana retailer about 30 miles north of Lansing. Lume Cannabis Co., at 116 N. Washington St. in Owosso, is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day but Sunday, when hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lume takes cash or debit cards.
The city of Lansing has approved retail licenses for 15 businesses, many of which, like Homegrown and Pure Options, are already operating as medical provisioning centers.
East Lansing is due to consider applications for three retailers in March.
Most other municipalities in Greater Lansing have outright banned marijuana retail businesses.
Homegrown Cannabis Co., at the corner of South Pennsylvania Avenue and Jolly Road, was the first location in the city to offer adult-use products, although it had been operating as a medical provisioning center for more than a year.
Sitting in a red folding chair just outside Homegrown's front doors, bundled against the 20-degree weather, Campeau said he arrived at the shop around 7:30 a.m.
The store was scheduled to open at 9 a.m.
"I grew up in the 60s," he said. "This is, to me, a major event."
Before there was a legal way to use recreational marijuana, he thought "the laws were a little bit ridiculous and definitely a little bit too harsh."
By 9 a.m., more than 50 people had lined up behind Campeau to enter Homegrown, the queue wrapping around the building and stretching into the parking lot.
When doors opened, customers were ushered into Homegrown's lobby, where a DJ played music. Eventually, the first 10 customers were led into the showroom.
Campeau spent some time perusing the merchandise, as additional customers entered the space and made their selections.
One woman spent more than $200 on edible gummies.
Eventually, Campeau made his selections: a brownie and "this and that."
"It's nice knowing I don't have to hire a lawyer," he said.
By 10 a.m., more than 100 people had entered Homegrown's doors.
A second Lansing retailer, Pure Options, has its licenses secured and was set to start adult-use sales at 6 p.m. Friday at 5815 S. Pennsylvania Ave. Their regular hours are 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. every day.
Homegrown will be open from 9 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. every day but Sunday, when hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Purchases are cash only.
Shiawassee County also has a legal marijuana retailer about 30 miles north of Lansing. Lume Cannabis Co., at 116 N. Washington St. in Owosso, is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day but Sunday, when hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lume takes cash or debit cards.
The city of Lansing has approved retail licenses for 15 businesses, many of which, like Homegrown and Pure Options, are already operating as medical provisioning centers.
East Lansing is due to consider applications for three retailers in March.
Most other municipalities in Greater Lansing have outright banned marijuana retail businesses.
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