Michigan And Montana Marijuana Scandals, NH Sales Commission Updates And Farming Survey

Businessman Implicates Former Michigan House Speaker In Medical Marijuana Scandal

West Bloomfield businessman John Dawood Dalaly, who faces up to 10 years in prison for bribing the former chairman of Michigan's medical marijuana licensing board Rick Johnson, has been credited by federal prosecutors for providing substantial assistance and implicating others in a major public corruption scandal.

Prosecutors are recommending a 2 1/2-year prison sentence for Dalaly, who admitted to paying $68,200 in bribes to Johnson in exchange for inside information about marijuana license applicants.

This case sheds light on a corruption scandal that has not yet resulted in new criminal charges but highlights the need for stricter oversight in Michigan's marijuana licensing processes.

Michigan Doctors Under Scrutiny: 18 Physicians Responsible For 62% of Medical Marijuana Certifications

A recent audit of Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) data in Michigan has raised concerns as it uncovered only 18 doctors were responsible for nearly 62% of the 134,709 medical marijuana certification cards issued between April 2021 and September 2022.

Two doctors issued certifications at an alarming rate, averaging over 30 patients per day, potentially generating more than $2 million. The audit questioned whether these certifications complied with legal requirements, but CRA officials claim they lack investigative authority.

Montana Governor and Secretary of State Seek Dismissal of Legal Challenge to Veto on Marijuana Revenue Bill

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte and Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen have requested the dismissal of a legal challenge concerning Gianforte's veto of Senate Bill 442, which sought to allocate a significant portion of the state's marijuana revenue toward county roads and conservation efforts.

Legal challenge, brought by three organizations, alleged that Gianforte improperly vetoed the bill and that lawmakers should have the opportunity to override the veto. The Governor and Secretary of State argue that the challenge is based on political positions and that the veto was executed correctly within the legislative session, urging the court to dismiss the case.

New Hampshire Commission Forms for State-Run Marijuana Sales Legislation as Cannabis Association Surveys Farmers

New Hampshire established a commission comprised of 17 members from diverse backgrounds to draft legislation for state-run marijuana sales. Concurrently, the New Hampshire Cannabis Association (NHCANN) is conducting a survey to gauge interest among farmers and agricultural professionals regarding potential cannabis cultivation opportunities in the state. Governor Chris Sununu supports this state-run model; survey results will be presented to the legislative commission tasked with drafting related legislation in 2024.

Stay on top of the latest news and developments in the cannabis industry at the upcoming Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, the conference where deals get done! Returning to Chicago this Sept 27-28 for its 17th edition. 

Get your tickets today before prices increase and secure a spot at the epicenter of cannabis investment and branding.

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