Bill > SB1716

This bill modifies Arizona's medical marijuana dispensary registration certificate rules by adjusting the process for issuing new certificates. The bill maintains the existing priority system for issuing new dispensary registration certificates, which depends on the geographic area's distance from existing dispensaries, but adds an important new provision that exempts dispensaries from invalidation if they were unable to open due to local ordinance restrictions. When multiple applications are received for the same geographic area, the department will continue to prioritize applications based on serving the most qualifying patients or using a random drawing. Dispensaries awarded certificates can only relocate within their original city, town, or unincorporated county area, and must maintain a minimum distance of 25 miles from other dispensaries. The bill is retroactive from December 31, 2022, requires an affirmative vote of at least three-fourths of legislature members to be enacted, and is considered an emergency measure necessary for public health and safety. The primary goal appears to be ensuring fair and accessible medical marijuana dispensary distribution across Arizona while providing flexibility for dispensaries facing local regulatory challenges.

Health and Social Services

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/83188