On July 13, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, D, signed a series of bills including a bill to regulate the production and sale of hemp-derived Delta 8. The main bill, HB 4517, amends the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act. It modifies the definition of industrial hemp and cannabis, setting limits on the total amount of THC a product intended for human use can have in it. It also allows the Marijuana Regulation Association (MRA) to exclude certain THC products from the overall tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) definition. 

Industry Response

Allowing Delta 8 to remain legal in Michigan is a big step forward for hemp-derived cannabinoids in general. Some states have banned Delta 8 from production, consumption, and sales. North Dakota banned Delta 8 just this year. Others, like Connecticut, say that only licenced cannabis dispensaries can sell Delta 8. Michigan is now the first state to require regulation, but not limit who can sell the products.

After signing the package of bills, including HB 4517, Governor Whitmer spoke about the regulation hemp-derived Delta 8.

“This package of bills continues to show Michigan is the model for the nation in regard to protecting its residents and making sure that those who consume marijuana products do so in a safe manner,” the governor said. “I am glad to see Michigan continuing to lead on the implementation and regulation of a safe, secure marijuana industry, which has already brought tens of millions of dollars in new tax revenue to the state, as well as thousands of well-paying jobs.”

A few associations in Michigan also spoke about the new bill for testing and regulating Delta 8. The director of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association, Robin Schneider, said many members opposed a ban of any THC products. 

“We applaud Governor Whitmer’s decision to sign this package of bills into law,” Director Schneider said. “Regulating delta 8 rather than banning the product is a smart and progressive move that is in the best interest of public health and safety.”

Future

The future of Delta 8 remains bright in Michigan. Research has found several potential health benefits to Delta 8. Allowing the general public safe access to an up and coming cannabinoid will reflect well for the state’s administration. Delta 8 regulation will begin in Michigan October 11, 2021.

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