Cannabis Legalization Update: Minnesota, Michigan, Montana, Maryland, Connecticut & Florida

Minnesota Marijuana Legalization Bill Clears Another Senate Hurdle

Minnesota is close to legalizing marijuana after a Senate committee approved a bill by Sen. Lindsey Port (D). The bill has only two more committees to pass before it can be taken to the full chamber. The House companion bill, sponsored by Rep. Zack Stephenson (D) has already passed through 14 committees, reported Marijuana Moment.

Want Some Great Weed In Michigan?

Join the ultimate marijuana showdown at Michigan's 4th Annual Cannabis Cup. The competition is back and bigger than ever. With more categories, brands and retailers, 3,550 lucky people will get to judge the best pot in Michigan, including Indica and Sativa strains, edibles, vapes, and flowers, per Fox 2 Detroit.

Detroit has authorized its inaugural festival that permits the legal use of cannabis. The 420 Cannabis Music Festival, which will be hosted later in the month (on April 29), will allow attendees to consume cannabis on the premises, both indoors and outdoors, per the Green Market Report.

Maryland Union Fights For Worker Protections In Cannabis Bill

Maryland lawmakers seem to be turning their backs on workers in favor of corporate interests in the cannabis industry. The state Senate Finance Committee voted 5-3 against labor peace agreements as a licensure requirement for the budding cannabis industry in Maryland. According to Maryland Matters, such agreements prevent direct actions like strikes from labor organizations, in exchange for the employer respecting the employee's right to decide on unionizing.

Montana Legislators Clash Over Marijuana Tax Revenue Distribution

Montana lawmakers are debating two legislative proposals that have different fiscal goals and philosophical perspectives on how to distribute marijuana tax revenue.
Senate Bill 442 initially aimed to redirect funds from Habitat Montana to county road repairs, but now allocates 20% of the tax revenue for habitat conservation. House Bill 669 directs most of the tax revenue to the general fund to give lawmakers more budget flexibility. Rep. Bill Mercer's measure passed the House Appropriations Committee, while the Governor's office-backed bill failed to pass, per a local news media outlet.

A Town In Connecticut Approves Cannabis Sales Despite Opposition

Despite opposition from town officials, the Wethersfield Planning and Zoning Commission approved a proposal for recreational marijuana sales on March 21st. The commission created an amendment to mitigate any negative effects on neighboring properties and establish guidelines for the placement, design, safety and monitoring of cannabis establishments. These guidelines will ensure the public's health, safety and well-being while still allowing for adult-use cannabis establishments, reported SFGATE.

Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference In Florida

The most successful cannabis business event in the world, the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, returns to Miami for its 16th edition. This is the place where DEALS GET DONE, where money is raised, M&A starts, and companies meet investors and key partners. Join us at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach Hotel in Florida on April 11-12. Don’t miss out. Secure your tickets now. 

Image Credits: Bukhta Yurii And ChonnieArtwork On Shutterstock Edited By Benzinga