Bill > HB698

This bill clarifies and modifies local government authority regarding marijuana businesses, specifically addressing regulations in counties where voters previously opposed recreational marijuana (Initiative Measure No. 190). The legislation allows local governments to regulate marijuana businesses through local elections and ordinances, with specific provisions for counties and municipalities. Key changes include establishing a process for local jurisdictions to approve or prohibit different categories of marijuana businesses (such as cultivators, dispensaries, manufacturers, and testing laboratories), particularly in counties where voters initially rejected recreational marijuana. The bill provides special considerations for existing medical marijuana licensees, allowing them to continue operating under certain conditions. It also establishes a mechanism for local jurisdictions to conduct elections on marijuana business approvals, with detailed voting procedures that distinguish between county-wide and municipal-specific votes. Importantly, the bill now requires specific ballot language for elections concerning the prohibition of recreational marijuana dispensaries and allows local governments to vote to prohibit previously approved marijuana businesses, with such prohibitions taking effect 90 days after the local election. The legislation aims to provide clear guidelines for local governments in managing marijuana business operations while respecting local voter preferences.

Government Affairs

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC3420