Note to Readers: While the primary focus of our platform remains cannabis-related news, we think it's important to explore the parallel happenings in the realm of psychedelic substances in Michigan, due to its close kinship and its potential implications for future policy-making in related fields. We hope you find the following article enlightening.
Soul Tribes International Ministries, known for advocating the use of psilocybin mushrooms as a religious sacrament, has recently escalated its legal battle by moving the case to federal court. The organization, operating inside Detroit's Bushnell Congregational Church, faced a significant setback when the Detroit Police Department raided the establishment on September 22nd, leading to a temporary restraining order and a nuisance claim against the owner, Shaman Shu, also known as Robert Shumake and Bobby Japhia.
In a notable development on November 6th, Shu initiated the transfer of his case to federal court, citing a violation of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act by the city's shutdown of the church. This move to federal jurisdiction marks a strategic shift in the legal approach of Soul Tribes. However, the City of Detroit has countered this action, petitioning on December 4 to remand the case back to Wayne County Circuit Court, emphasizing that the issue does not involve federal law and is more suited to regional jurisdiction due to its focus on local nuisance concerns.
The transition to federal court led to a significant change in legal representation for Shu. Initially represented by Detroit's Cannabis Counsel, the firm withdrew from the case on November 27th, citing both an "irreconcilable breakdown in the attorney-client relationship" and unpaid fees. The firm's departure followed Shu's decision to move the case to federal court without their knowledge. Shu is now represented by Florida-based attorney George Lake, who is licensed in multiple states and specializes in the free exercise of religion and the sacramental consumption of psychedelics/entheogens. Lake, who also represents clients in similar cases involving ayahuasca ceremonies, brings a unique expertise to Shu's defense.
This legal controversy centers around Soul Tribes' use of psilocybin mushrooms, which they regard as a holy sacrament. The church was selling these mushrooms from a "sacrament center" on its grounds. The Metro Times' coverage of the church in September preceded the seizure of significant quantities of mushrooms and marijuana by Detroit Police, along with the discovery of a laboratory for manufacturing these substances.
Soul Tribes and Shu now plan a $1 billion countersuit against the city, alleging racial and religious discrimination and claiming substantial vandalism and damage to the church property during the period it was padlocked. The countersuit highlights the church's claims of infringement on religious freedoms and seeks to address the economic damages incurred.
The case of Soul Tribes brings to the forefront critical issues regarding the interpretation of religious freedom, the legality of entheogenic substances, and the role of local versus federal jurisdiction in such matters. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar situations involving religious practices and controlled substances.
Residents of Algonac, Michigan are set to vote in February on a pivotal decision regarding the city's stance on marijuana establishments. In a recent city council meeting, Mayor Rocky Gillis announced that a petition with 353 valid signatures had been submitted. This petition proposes the repeal of Algonac's existing ordinance, which prohibits marijuana establishments, in favor of adopting a new ordinance to permit a single marijuana dispensary within the city.
This dispensary, to be licensed by the state of Michigan, would cater to both medical and recreational marijuana users. The proposed location for the dispensary is within a commercially zoned district in Algonac. The city's charter mandates that such petitions be presented to the city council, which then has 30 days to either adopt the proposed ordinance, repeal the existing one, or put the matter to a public vote.
Mayor Gillis outlined the procedural steps following each option. If the council opts to adopt or repeal the ordinance, the city attorney would draft a new zoning ordinance, reviewed by the planning commission without a public hearing. The recommendation from the commission would then be introduced and potentially adopted in subsequent city council meetings.
Alternatively, should the council decide to put the proposal to a public vote, the matter would be decided in the next scheduled election on February 27th, 2024. Council member Dawn Davey motioned for this third option, favoring a democratic decision by the city's electorate.
During the meeting, City Attorney Jim Downey clarified the distinctions between the first two options. Both would involve the planning commission due to the need for zoning accommodation for the proposed dispensary, a consideration not previously required under the existing prohibition ordinance.
Council member Michael Bembas suggested that since the referendum is likely to pass, the council could bypass the ballot and proceed directly with planning. However, Mayor Pro Tem Raymond Martin and Council member Cathy Harris voiced support for a public vote, emphasizing the importance of community input on this citywide issue.
Downey indicated that even if the issue goes to voters, the city could still draft an ordinance in the interim, allowing time to study similar ordinances in other communities and address zoning issues.
Council member Davey noted that if the referendum passes, Algonac would become the second city in the county to allow dispensaries, following Port Huron. She expressed concerns about potential litigation arising from granting a single dispensary license. Downey acknowledged these concerns, suggesting that additional time could help address potential legal issues.
Ultimately, the council unanimously agreed to submit the proposal to the electorate, with Council member Corey Blair absent from the meeting.
Puff Cannabis Company, a Michigan-based enterprise, has launched its second annual "Jackets for Joints" charity event in collaboration with Jeeter, a product of Dreamfields Brand. Starting December 5th and running through December 22nd, this event aims to collect new winter coats for children aged 3 to 12. The company invites customers to participate by donating new coats at any of their locations across Michigan, including Madison Heights, Hamtramck, Utica, River Rouge, Bay City, Oscoda, Traverse City, Sturgis, Monroe, and Kalamazoo.
Since its establishment in 2019, Puff Cannabis has focused on delivering top-tier cannabis products, competitive pricing, and outstanding customer service. The "Jackets for Joints" initiative allows customers to contribute a new coat with its tags still attached in exchange for a complimentary 1-gram Jeeter infused pre-roll or a jar of Baby Jeeter infused pre-rolls, subject to a one-per-customer limit while supplies last.
This campaign is part of Puff Cannabis' ongoing commitment to community support, as emphasized by Justin Elias, the Founder and President of Puff Cannabis. Elias highlights the significance of such initiatives, especially in Michigan, where the need for warm winter clothing is critical. Following last year's successful drive and a recent donation of over 2,500 Thanksgiving turkeys, Elias underscores the importance of supporting local communities and ensuring children are well-equipped for winter.
All jackets and coats collected will be donated to local charities across Michigan, directly aiding children in need. Puff Cannabis encourages everyone to join in this meaningful cause this holiday season, aiming to spread warmth and community spirit. The company has listed its various locations across Michigan to facilitate donations:
In a remarkable display of growth, Michigan's cannabis market has swiftly risen to become the second-largest in the United States, trailing only California. Within a span of four years, the state has developed a highly competitive market landscape, evidenced by over 2,100 active adult-use licenses, including 1,050 for growers and 734 for retailers. This rapid expansion is highlighted by the issuance of an additional 72 grower licenses between June and October.
The robustness of Michigan's market is further underscored by its substantial sales figures. Since June 2023, the adult-use sector has consistently generated over $250 million in monthly sales, indicating both growth and maturity in the market.
Michigan's cannabis industry is increasingly attracting consumers, offering diverse products at competitive prices. Madeline Scanlon, a cannabis insights manager at Brightfield Group, notes a significant trend: the reduction in retail prices for an ounce of flower to under $200 in late 2021 significantly bolstered legal recreational market purchases. By the third quarter of 2023, with prices averaging around $100 per ounce, approximately 75% of consumers were patronizing recreational dispensaries. This trend also correlates with a decrease in the illegal market's share, which fell from 50% to 37% during the same period.
The Brightfield Group's data provides fascinating insights into the demographics of Michigan's adult-use cannabis consumers. Notably, women constitute the majority at 56%, with a substantial representation from Gen Xers and Baby Boomers, who make up 40% of the consumer base. Preferences among these consumers are clear, with flower (69%) and pre-rolls (67%) being the most popular choices, followed closely by gummies. Despite the affordability, a significant 80% of recreational shoppers prioritize price over other factors such as taste, effect, or dosage.
Michigan's cannabis industry is marked by intense competition among brands and retailers, each striving to differentiate itself with unique product offerings. This competitive environment has led to a staggering $6.4 billion spent on recreational cannabis since December 2019. Local brands, such as Lume Cannabis Co., contribute to this diversity, while multistate operators (MSOs) like PharmaCann, Ascend Wellness Holdings Inc., and Cresco Labs Inc. add to the competitive intensity with their comprehensive product ranges.
Michigan's cannabis market is not only growing but also impacting consumer behavior and economic prospects. According to Brightfield's study, 23% of Michigan residents have purchased cannabis in the last three months, surpassing the national average. This expansion reflects a broader trend towards normalization and acceptance of cannabis, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and increased government revenue. The growing number of operators suggests a future of more accessible and affordable cannabis products, promising continued growth and evolution in the sector.
The Port Huron Fire Department recently declared that a fire at the Exhibit Dispensary & Lounge, located at 1033 River St., occurred accidentally. According to a press release issued on Monday by the department, the fire was sparked by improperly discarded smoking materials in a trash receptacle.
Fire Chief Corey Nicholson identified the cause more specifically as a discarded cigarette. He confirmed that there was no marijuana present in the establishment at the time of the incident. This clarification comes as the Exhibit Dispensary & Lounge was gearing up to become one of the first venues in Port Huron to sell recreational marijuana.
The fire broke out on November 26th, just ahead of the dispensary's anticipated opening. The timely response of the Port Huron firefighters was crucial in saving the structure from more severe damage. However, Lieutenant Matthew Oleaga of the Port Huron Fire Department noted that the building sustained smoke damage. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported as a result of the fire.
Mark Aubrey, who operates Exhibit Cannabis, had previously expressed intentions to inaugurate the business by year's end. As of now, Aubrey has not publicly commented on the potential impact of the fire on the dispensary's opening schedule.
Traverse City, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant tourism, ventured into the recreational cannabis market nine months ago, marking a significant shift in its economic and cultural landscape. This transition comes after a long period of anticipation, following the statewide legalization of adult-use cannabis in Michigan and a subsequent delay in the implementation of local regulations.
Helpful Links Categories Recent News