Though cannabis sales are legal in dozens of states across the US, there are still many restrictions when it comes to obtaining a license to legally sell weed. A common barrier for many is their past record. In most states, those with past cannabis-related convictions are unable to obtain marijuana business licenses.
However, there has been a consistent uproar in the industry on this issue. This has prompted many states to reassess, with some introducing new reform. The most recent state to refine their marijuana business license eligibility in favor of past convicts is Michigan.
HB4295 Expands Cannabis Business License Eligibility in Michigan
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) signed a bill into law that would now allow those with certain past cannabis convictions to be eligible to receive a medical marijuana business license in the state. Additionally, this lifts a former ban which disqualified individuals with any cannabis-related felony or misdemeanor convictions on their records.
On the other hand though, this does not include all past cannabis-related convicts. Those that have been convicted for distributing cannabis to a minor will remain disqualified from receiving a marijuana business license in Michigan.
Via Unsplash
Another Positive Step Towards a More Diverse Cannabis Industry
The new law, called House Bill 4295, takes effect immediately. Its purpose is not just to expand the pool of eligibility, but also to diversify it. License restrictions like those amended by House Bill 4295 are seen as discriminatory. This is due especially to people of color being statistically more likely to be a target of weed-related offenses.
While the War on Drugs is far from over – and continues to negatively impact minorities – social equity and legalization organizations and activists across the country continue to make strides towards a more diverse and fair cannabis industry. Michigan’s newest cannabis reform is another step in the right direction.
This comes shortly after Washington state expanded eligibility for cannabis business licenses to people with criminal records too. Additionally, Vermont, Illinois, and Colorado also recently enacted similar efforts. Moreover, celebrities, professional athletes, mayors, activists, and more have been calling on Biden for federal legalization and pardons for cannabis convicts.
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