7 quick hits of cannabis news from across Michigan

MICHIGAN—Cannabis is a big deal in Michigan—and there’s never a shortage of newsworthy headlines from the industry as the state inches closer to becoming the nation’s weed capital.

Here are 7 things you need to know this week:

HARRIS BACKS BUD: When asked about her views on cannabis in a recent interview, Vice President Kamala Harris reiterated that no American should go to jail for smoking marijuana.

“I think we have come to a point where we have to understand that we need to legalize it and stop criminalizing this behavior,” she said. “I have felt for a long time that we need to legalize it.”

KOSHER KUSH: Under the name Vlasic Labs, the Michigan family behind the nation’s largest pickle brand will soon make CBD products for pets and people, reports the Detroit Free Press. 

CANNABIS CAMPOUT: Dozens of hopeful entrepreneurs have reportedly been camping out in tents for the last several days in front of Redford Township Hall in hopes of being one of the first few people to apply for a local license to run a cannabis business in the township. 

BLACK MARKET BLUES: Michigan’s basement-low marijuana prices (of about $80 an ounce on average) are likely impacted by a significant influx of illegal and untracked marijuana that’s flowing into the legal system, according to new reports from Crain’s Detroit Business.

DOOBIE ACT: People applying for jobs with the federal government would no longer be rejected solely on the basis of past marijuana use under a bill that passed a US Senate committee in September. The “Doobie Act,” as it had been dubbed, was introduced by US Sen. Gary Peters (D-Michigan). It must still pass the full Senate and House to be signed into law.

ALL UNDER ONE ROOF: The Fields Cannary, which bills itself as a one-stop-shop for weed, food, and drinks, is set to open next spring on the northeast side of Muskegon, MLive reports.

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST: Officials at Michigan cannabis companies reportedly expect more dispensaries in Traverse City to close as supply continues to outpace demand in the tourist town—particularly with 10 dispensaries now trying to operate there in the colder months.

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