Bill > H1561

This bill, titled the "Cannabis Regulation and Taxation Act of 2016," aims to legalize and regulate the cannabis industry by establishing a framework for licensing, production, distribution, and sale of marijuana and hemp products for adults over 21 years old. It creates a Cannabis Commission to oversee these operations, sets standards for cultivation, processing, and retail facilities, and imposes taxes on marijuana processors. The bill also addresses the distribution of cannabis to minors, with penalties for violations, and outlines provisions for expunging past marijuana-related offenses. Importantly, it clarifies that existing laws regarding driving under the influence of marijuana remain unchanged and that the act does not affect medical marijuana provisions. The legislation defines key terms such as "adult," "cannabis," "hemp" (cannabis with less than 2% THC), and "marijuana" (cannabis with 2% or more THC), and establishes licensing requirements, including residency and financial qualifications, while also allowing municipalities to enact local ordinances regarding the time, place, manner, and number of cannabis facilities.