LANSING, Mich., Sept. 2, 2020 — The House Committee on Appropriations approved House Bill 6120 today, introduced by state Rep. Cynthia A. Johnson (D-Detroit) to amend the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act and allow the transfer of $17 million from the Marihuana Regulatory Fund (MRF) to the General Fund.
“In these uncertain times, the revenue generated by marijuana dispensary application fees are an important piece of balancing our state’s budget,” said Johnson. “The legalization of marijuana was not only common-sense criminal justice reform, but it will provide revenue for vital public programs for years to come.”
There is a projected year-end fund balance of $21.8 million in the MRF, which includes revenue generated from the collection of application fees and annual regulatory assessments. Under current law, funds within the MRF can only be used for administrative and enforcement activities under the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act, whereas General Fund dollars can be used for a wide range of purposes.
After passing a vote in the House Committee on Appropriations, HB 6120 is now awaiting a vote in the full House.
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