Understanding the changes in Michigan’s medical marijuana law

With ever-changing marijuana laws across the country and in Michigan alone, it can be confusing to understand what is legal or illegal. Medical marijuana is legal in Michigan and the law just underwent several changes. A lot of people are wondering how many plants a patient or caregiver can grow.

Everyone must be aware of the new laws and regulations so they do not get in legal trouble. Keep reading for an analysis of what laws changed for medical marijuana in Michigan and what might be next.

New rules for growers

Under the old medical marijuana law, caregivers were extremely limited in what they could grow. With the new law in place, there are three different levels of growers who can have:

• Up to 500 plants
• Up to 1,000 plants
• Up to 1,500 plants

There are various licensing options available, including those for transporters and dispensaries.

Local discretion

Despite the expansion of medical marijuana accessibility, local governments can decide a lot when it comes to dispensaries. Cities can determine how many facilities there will be and restrict where dispensaries and growers may operate with zoning laws. Some local governments have not taken any action to amend laws, essentially refusing to allow dispensaries within their jurisdiction.

What the future holds

Many of the details of the new medical law are still rolling out. While lawmakers work out licensing and dispensaries, some people think that recreational marijuana legalization is next. Advocacy groups and even Michigan politicians are looking ahead to passing a recreational marijuana law.

With recreational use still illegal and medical marijuana details changing, it can be difficult to keep up. However, it should be clear that there are still strict regulations regarding the cultivation and use of medical marijuana. Exceeding the numbers of plants grown or having an expired growing license could result in criminal cultivation charges.