The state's rulemaking process for the sale of recreational marijuana is again moving ahead after Montana lawmakers intervened last week with last-minute concerns.
The Economic Affairs Interim Committee lifted its bipartisan objection delaying the new industry's regulations after several proposed rules were amended, including the regulation of licenses on Indian reservations and how businesses manage marijuana waste.
Pepper Petersen with the Montana Cannabis Guild also voiced concern about the rules, and on Monday, thanked lawmakers for the changes made.
“I know this is crunch time and these are very difficult regulations," Petersen said, "so I appreciate people even putting time in on the weekends.”
A Democrat and Republican from the legislative interim committee worked with state staff to amend the proposed rules.
The Montana Legislature passed a massive recreational marijuana bill last session and the state department of revenue must follow legislative intent in implementing it.
The deadline to submit the proposed rules to the Secretary of State’s office was Tuesday.
The sale of recreational marijuana in Montana will be legal on Jan. 1 for adults age 21 and older.
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