Social Equity Program expanded to include local communities

Michigan’s Marijuana Regulatory Agency has expanded the number of communities eligible for the “Social Equity Program” from 41 to 184.

The program allows those who resided in the areas for five of the past 10 years to obtain discounts when obtaining adult-use marijuana licenses. These now include Sturgis, Sturgis Township, Three Rivers and White Pigeon Township.

The municipality or township must not ban recreational marijuana operations within its jurisdiction before the state license can be granted.

That means for those who apply to the Marijuana Regulatory Agency for adult-use cannabis can benefit from a reduction of up to 60 percent off the application fee, the initial license fee and future renewal fees.

The program is designed to encourage participation in the marijuana industry by people who live in Michigan communities that have been disproportionately affected by marijuana prohibition and enforcement.