Michigan has taken a progressive step towards aligning its employment policies with the changing landscape of cannabis legalization in the United States. Starting Sunday, October 1st, a majority of state job applicants will no longer be subjected to pre-employment cannabis screening, similar to the state's approach to alcohol testing. However, positions associated with law enforcement, healthcare, and driving will still necessitate cannabis tests.
The pivotal decision was made in July when the Michigan Civil Service Commission unanimously approved this significant policy change. Previously, applicants who tested positive for cannabis were ineligible for state jobs for a minimum of three years. With the revised policy, such applicants can reapply for state positions without any waiting period.
Commission Chair Jose Bolger emphasized that despite this reform, maintaining workplace sobriety is paramount. "Employees must remain sober from both alcohol and cannabis during working hours. If there are suspicions of impairment, further tests might be conducted," stated Bolger. Consequently, state jobs are now distinctly categorized as test-designated or non-designated.
Paul Armentano, NORML's Deputy Director, who had provided testimony to the Commission, welcomed the change. "Mandatory urine tests for past cannabis use are invasive, discriminatory, and don't necessarily lead to a safer workplace. These tests aren't effective in identifying individuals currently under the influence," he highlighted.
Michigan's progressive move mirrors a broader national trend, with multiple U.S. jurisdictions amending their workplace policies to protect the rights of cannabis users. States such as Nevada, Washington, Connecticut, and others have already adopted similar reforms. Notably, California is set to enact its policy change on January 1, 2024.
Furthermore, last Wednesday marked a significant advancement at the federal level. The U.S. House of Representatives' Oversight and Accountability Committee voted favorably on H.R. 5040: The Cannabis Users' Restoration of Eligibility (CURE) Act. This legislation aims to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with a history of past cannabis use.
Armentano, while applauding these legislative strides, also pointed out the outdated nature of some existing policies. "Suspicionless marijuana testing in workplaces, particularly pre-employment screening, is not evidence-based. It's a relic from the 1980s 'war on drugs.' With changing public perceptions and legal shifts, it's high time workplace policies reflect this new reality, without penalizing employees for off-hours activities that don't compromise workplace safety," he concluded.
In Lansing, Michigan, the push for expanded clemency is gaining momentum as hundreds converge upon the Capitol, rallying with the sweet incentive of complimentary Ben & Jerry's ice cream. Advocates are calling for Governor Whitmer's decisive intervention to address the long shadows of mass incarceration, particularly in cases tied to marijuana. Join the passionate advocates on the Capitol steps in Lansing, MI, from 3 to 5pm on Saturday, September 30th.
"Clemency is Governor Whitmer's empowerment to usher individuals out of confinement with just her signature," expressed Michael Thompson, Board President of the Michael Thompson Clemency Project. Thompson, a beacon of hope for many, was granted clemency by Governor Whitmer in 2021 after an overwhelming 25 years imprisoned due to a cannabis sale conviction.
Distinguished guests, including Michigan Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein, MI U.S. Senate hopeful and prison reform advocate Hill Harper, Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit, and leaders from criminal justice reform organizations, will amplify the call. Their voices will be joined by those who know the prison system firsthand: the formerly incarcerated and families still under its weight.
Ben and Jerry's contribution to the cause extends beyond frozen delights. As part of a broader national movement, the ice cream brand is urging governors across the country to endorse clemency for all marijuana-associated convictions, highlighting their commitment here.
This event will spotlight poignant tales of justice-impacted citizens, emphasizing the urgent need for mass clemency. Tina Talbot, for instance, served time for what many deem an act of self-defense, protecting herself and her son from her husband. Nancy Seaman's harrowing journey, conveyed by Justice Thru Storytelling Founder Kelle Lynn, underscores the dire situation of many battered women in Michigan's prison system.
Driving home the urgency, the Michael Thompson Clemency Project delineates categories meriting clemency, including:
Though recent years have seen a decrease in Michigan's incarcerated population, many believe this to be influenced largely by the COVID-19 pandemic. Clemencies are still a rarity, and parole grants in 2021 plummeted to a 30-year low. These statistics starkly contrast with evidence-backed recommendations for reform and the urgent need to address longstanding systemic disparities hurting Michigan communities.
Michigan's efforts in criminal justice reform, while commendable, often lack the immediacy required. While reforms are essential, their trickle-down effect can be excruciatingly slow, leaving many in prolonged limbo.
The power of clemency lies in its ability to rectify past oversights, offer a renewed shot at life, and mend fragmented communities and families. We fervently encourage Governor Whitmer to collaborate with the Michigan Parole Board, prioritizing a review of clemency applications and granting them, especially for the vital categories aforementioned.
As Michigan continues its journey with cannabis and evolving perspectives on justice, this plea for expanded clemency reflects a broader quest for equity, understanding, and community healing.
This coming November 7th, residents of Pontiac will have a unique opportunity to weigh in on the future of marijuana establishments within the city. Two crucial ordinances have been proposed that aim to structure and regulate the adult-use marijuana industry in line with state legislation.
The first ordinance on the ballot seeks to formally allow the operation of adult-use marijuana establishments in Pontiac. This comes in line with the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act, Initiated Law 1 of 2018. If passed, this ordinance would establish standards and procedures to grant and oversee marijuana establishment permits. It also lays out the stipulations for permit application fees, renewal fees, and conditions for the establishments' operation. For those interested in a deep dive, the complete Ordinance No. 2406 can be reviewed at the City Clerk's Office during regular business hours.
The second proposal aims to amend the city's zoning ordinances to integrate adult-use marijuana businesses into specific overlay districts. The changes touch on multiple articles and chapters in the city's zoning code, detailing where and how these businesses can operate. The proposed adjustments range from specifying permitted uses within the Marijuana Overlay Districts to establishing development standards for various marijuana-related businesses, such as growers, retailers, and microbusinesses. Residents can view the full text of Ordinance No. 2407 at the City Clerk's Office during standard business hours.
These proposed changes signify a significant step for Pontiac as it seeks to align its local regulations with the broader state laws regarding adult-use marijuana. As always, every vote counts, and residents are encouraged to educate themselves on the matter and make an informed decision come November.
After facing a series of setbacks, from robberies to bankruptcy, the iconic alternative lifestyle store, Purple East, is optimistic about finding an investor to ensure its longevity as it approaches its landmark 50th anniversary.
Drew Phillippy, the current president and co-owner, points to the extensive road construction on Plainfield Avenue during the summer as a significant setback for the Grand Rapids-based business, diverting potential customers. Purple East, renowned for its vast array of smoking accessories tailored for both tobacco and cannabis enthusiasts, has endured its fair share of challenges over the past few years.
Taking the reins as general manager in 2019 and later ascending to the presidency in 2020, Phillippy's mission was to steer Purple East back to prosperity. Amidst an overextension of resources, he filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to consolidate a $270,000 debt. By 2020, Phillippy made the strategic decision to merge its four branches into a single location at 2221 Plainfield Ave. NE, Suite 105, gradually reviving the business, even as the COVID-19 pandemic loomed.
In 2022, Phillippy and Jerell Smith took the leap to become the new owners. "I genuinely believed we'd overcome the most difficult challenges," Phillippy reflected, noting the business was profitable for a year and a half post-bankruptcy.
However, Purple East's resilience was tested with three separate robberies, inflationary pressures, and the challenges presented by road construction. Moreover, the legalization of recreational-use marijuana in Michigan added to the store's woes as multiple cannabis retailers began establishing their presence, making the competition fiercer.
Ben Wrigley, an expert in marijuana business law at Wrigley Hoffman P.C., observes that traditional paraphernalia shops like Purple East face challenges due to the proliferation of larger cannabis retailers who also stock similar products. Wrigley emphasizes the importance of these retailers staying attuned to market trends, especially with edibles predicted to dominate the future.
For Phillippy, the immediate goal is to offset the remaining $35,000 debt and find a visionary buyer who sees the potential in Purple East. As the 50th anniversary looms, Phillippy aspires for the business to celebrate it with the grandeur it deserves, instead of amidst financial challenges.
With a dash of innovation, additional capital, and renewed enthusiasm, Phillippy believes that Purple East can thrive once more. "This is a 50-year legacy with immense potential," he states confidently. "In the right hands and with the right strategy, Purple East can reclaim its glory in this evolving market."
In Michigan's dynamic cannabis landscape, growers are eyeing aeroponic techniques as a potentially groundbreaking shift from traditional cultivation methods. Instead of relying on soil-based mediums, such as rockwool or coco coir, aeroponics introduces a system where plant roots, suspended in air, are directly misted with a solution rich in water and essential nutrients.
This method, though revolutionary, isn't merely a novel concept. When married with meticulous environmental controls, aeroponic cultivation pledges not just growth, but accelerated growth. Jim Strain of Dycar Pharmaceuticals, based in Cranbrook, British Columbia, vouches for its efficacy. He states, "Having experimented with a myriad of systems, aeroponics, when flawlessly executed, remains unrivaled in terms of growth speed."
But what does this mean for Michigan's marijuana cultivators? Is aeroponics the next big thing, or just a fleeting trend? As we delve deeper, we'll explore the advantages, challenges, and the potential future of this cultivation technique in the region.
Imagine: You're a passionate entrepreneur, ready to launch a business that could employ many and boost the local economy. Yet, doors shut on you when seeking basic financial tools such as construction loans or credit lines. The reason? Almost every institution is backed by the federal government, and you're in the cannabis industry.
Despite cannabis being recognized for its therapeutic benefits and recreational appeal, workers and businesses in the industry face a monumental hurdle: the federal government's classification of marijuana as a Schedule 1 drug. This stance bars national financial institutions from engaging in routine business activities with cannabis companies or their employees in states like Michigan.
However, the perspective on cannabis has shifted dramatically. In Michigan, medical marijuana was approved in 2008 and recreational use for adults in 2018 through public voting. Now, 38 states have either decriminalized or fully legalized medical and/or recreational cannabis.
As Michigan's cannabis sector grows and evolves, there's an urgent need for comprehensive public policy. This policy should prioritize public safety and address the unique demands of this emerging powerhouse in our state's economy. This means enabling cannabis professionals and businesses to access similar financial services as any other lawful industry.
Regrettably, this financial equality remains elusive. It's high time Congress enacted the U.S. Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act. Here's why:
It would empower states like Michigan, where cannabis is legal, to oversee the industry effectively.
The SAFE Banking Act champions Michigan's over $3 billion cannabis industry, ensuring entrepreneurs, their teams, and families can utilize essential financial resources.
It would enhance the safety of cannabis businesses, reducing risks associated with cash transactions, such as theft, fraud, or more severe crimes.
The act addresses disparities in an industry that continues to thrive. As of July 31st, Michigan proudly stands third in cannabis employment, with 32,819 dedicated workers, according to the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency. This figure is only poised to grow.
However, it's pivotal to understand that the SAFE Banking Act doesn't aim to federally legalize cannabis or modify its Schedule 1 status. Its sole purpose is to prevent financial institutions from facing repercussions for serving legal, regulated cannabis entities.
We urge Michigan's congressional representatives to champion the rights of states with legalized cannabis. By endorsing the SAFE Banking Act promptly, they can bolster business, consumer safety, and ensure equal access to financial utilities, all while preserving the security of our communities.
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