Michigan is preparing to join other states and territories in the legalization of recreational marijuana. Starting on Dec. 1, adults 21 and older in Michigan will be able to purchase marijuana for more than just medical purposes.

The state decided to open the recreational market months earlier than previously projected.

The state’s medical dispensaries that have been in operation for at least 30 days will also be able to sell up to half of all recreational cannabis.

In November 2018, Michigan voters supported a marijuana legalization referendum with 55.9% of the vote. In moving forward on recreational marijuana, Michigan has joined the likes of Alaska, California, Colorado, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington in embracing legalization.

“This approach will allow for a transition to the adult use market as we estimate that there will be around a dozen or so licensees who would be eligible on Dec. 1,” David Harns, a spokesman for the Marijuana Regulatory Agency, said in a statement to MLive. “Similar to the medical market, we expect it be a slow build-out as the production of plants and products increases. This will create an environment where businesses can supply the market as quickly as possible.”

But according to reports, 79% of the state's communities, which includes Detroit, have banned marijuana businesses from opening.

After Michigan, Illinois will be the next state to begin selling recreational cannabis, beginning on Jan. 1.

Marijuana buds are weighed at a dispensary in Los Angeles
Marijuana buds are weighed at a dispensary in Los Angeles AFP / Frederic J. BROWN
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