Recreational marijuana is now legal in Michigan after voters passed Proposal 1 during the Midterm elections on Tuesday.
- Proposal 2 passes creating an independent redistricting commission
- Proposal 3 passes in Michigan allowing for easier access to voting
The proposal was one of the most-talked-about issues on the ballot. It allows anyone 21 and older to carry 2.5 ounces of marijuana without getting in trouble.
“Obviously the results of today’s election were not what we hoped for. It is important to note that more Michiganders voted no on Proposal 18.1 than on the other two proposals," a spokesperson for Healthy and Productive Michigan said. The group was against proposal 1. "While our side lost tonight, it is important to recognize the level of responsibility that now rests on the shoulders of those who have voted Yes."
Michigan is now the 10th state in the United States and Washington D.C. that has legalized pot, but marijuana is still illegal when it comes to federal agencies.
Anyone 21 and older living or visiting the state will be able to buy, possess and use marijuana and/or marijuana-infused edibles in the state. They can also grow up to 12 marijuana plants in their homes for personal use.
The restrictions on that include a 10-ounce limit for marijuana kept at home and anything over 2.5 ounces to be in a locked container.
There would also be a state licensing system through the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, which would cost the state millions of dollars to create. It would also be subject to a 10 percent excise tax for implementation costs, clinical trials, schools, roads and more.
According to a report from the non-partisan Senate Fiscal Agency, recreational marijuana could bring $262 million in tax revenue by 2023.
The plan would also change some marijuana-related crimes to civil infractions.
