Michigan recreational marijuana expected to be legal by Dec. 6

Michigan’s recreational marijuana law is expected to take effect by Thursday, Dec. 6, according to state officials.

That’s exactly one month after 56 percent of voters said “yes” to Proposal 1, the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act.

The reason for the delay is procedural: the law takes effect 10 calendar days after the Board of State Canvassers meets to certify the election results.

The Board of State Canvassers is expected to meet Nov. 26, said Secretary of State Spokesman Fred Woodhams.

That means the law will take effect Thursday, Dec. 6, said Woodhams and David Harns, spokesman for the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

As of Dec. 6, adults over the age of 21 can possess and consume marijuana in the privacy of their homes. It remains illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana. The state has one year to develop rules for a commercial marijuana industry in the state, and has to accept the first business license applications in December 2019.

In the week since the election, a number of Michigan communities have decided to ban recreational marijuana businesses. Some have indicated the action is temporary as they await the state’s rules and regulations.

Meanwhile, universities and colleges are reminding their students, faculty and staff that their policies regarding marijuana use and possession have not changed despite the passage of Proposal 1 — and that campuses are to remain drug-free.

— Amy Biolchini is the marijuana beat reporter for MLive. Contact her with questions, tips or comments at abiolch1@mlive.com.
Read more from MLive about recreational marijuana.

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