The state is processing the first applications for medical marijuana licenses.
As we hear from Michigan Public Radio’s Rick Pluta, more than a hundred background checks are already underway.
Another 400 or so businesses are in different stages of applying. Most are waiting on local approval before moving ahead with the state process.
David Harns is with the state Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
He says the new directive from the US Justice Department that clears the way for federal prosecutors to enforce marijuana laws will not affect the state’s licensing program.
“We’re going to continue accepting and processing applications." Harns says. "Nothing is going to change in that regard.”
Harns says the first licenses should be issued by the state’s medical marijuana licensing board in March or April.