6 quick hits of cannabis news from across Michigan

By Kyle Kaminski

October 20, 2025

MICHIGAN—Cops are cracking down, legal battles are unfolding, more pregnant women are consuming cannabis, and President Donald Trump just handed a Detroit dispensary owner a new diplomatic title. Say what you want, but Michigan’s weed scene is anything but boring.

Here’s what went down over the last week:

WEED ENVOY: Despite having little political or diplomatic experience, Detroit dispensary owner Mark Savaya—best known for his Leaf and Bud stores and their flamboyant billboards—was appointed by President Donald Trump to serve as the next special envoy to Iraq.

TAXED TO DEATH: The owner of Leelanau County’s only dispensary says Michigan’s new 24% wholesale weed tax could crush small shops and cause prices to spike if it’s allowed to take effect. Meanwhile, the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association is still suing to block the tax.

PUFF, PASS, PARENT: A new Michigan State University study found that about one in six pregnant women in Michigan use cannabis—even rising to one in four in some regions. Researchers say legalization has made weed more accessible and less stigmatized, but warn that still doesn’t make it any less dangerous to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

PUFF ON HOLD: A Menominee County judge reportedly denied Puff Cannabis’ request to force the city to greenlight its long-delayed 10th Street dispensary. The ruling keeps Puff in legal limbo—at least until after voters decide next month whether to cap dispensary licenses at nine.

FANTASY FIASCO: The ex-wife of Skymint’s former CEO is suing him over what she calls a backdoor weed scheme gone bad. Susan Radway reportedly says Jeff Radway used her to launch Fantasy Farms in Lansing, then siphoned cash to build new ventures out of state. Radway and his attorneys, of course, have vehemently denied the accusations.

PLANT PROBLEM: Michigan State Police raided a home in Courtland Township last week, hauling away several marijuana plants as part of an ongoing investigation. Details are scarce.

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Author

Kyle Kaminski

Kyle Kaminski is an award-winning investigative journalist with more than a decade of experience covering news across Michigan. Prior to joining The ‘Gander, Kyle worked as the managing editor at City Pulse in Lansing and as a reporter for the Traverse City Record-Eagle.

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CATEGORIES: CANNABIS

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