The state of Michigan will start accepting applications from businesses seeking recreational marijuana licenses Friday, November 1.
But retail sales may still be a long way off.
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Michigan voters approved recreational marijuana in 2018. But the need for state regulations has delayed retail sales.
Robin Schneider is the executive director of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association. She is not expecting many applications to be submitted on Friday.
“I just don’t believe that we’re going to see a Green Rush of businesses running out to get those rec licenses on the first day because of the lack of supply,” says Schneider.
Schneider says Michigan’s medical marijuana industry is already dealing with a shortage of marijuana flower. It's a shortage that will likely be exacerbated when recreational marijuana hits the retail market.
State regulators have said they will grant the first recreational licenses in the coming weeks. But growing and testing of marijuana plants grown specifically for the recreational market will take time.
Schneider says recreational retailers may have to wait until March or April for supplies to become available.
