Senate Bill 255, a measure that would require adults to obtain a state-issued identification card before purchasing recreational marijuana, has been scheduled for a public hearing on February 27 at 8:30 a.m. in Room 422 of the Montana State Capitol.
Sponsored by State Senator Greg Hertz (R), the bill would make it so that those 21 and older must apply for and receive a marijuana identification card from the state Department of Revenue before being allowed to buy recreational marijuana or marijuana products. The process would involve submitting an application, paying a $200 fee, and providing proof of Montana residency along with personal information.
The bill grants rulemaking authority to the Department of Revenue and would amend sections of Montana’s existing marijuana regulations.
The hearing on February 27 is being conducted by the Senate Business, Labor and Economic Affairs Committee, the bill’s committee of origin.
Montana voters approved recreational marijuana legalization in 2021, with retail sales beginning in January 2022. Currently, individuals 21 and older can possess up to one ounce of marijuana, with recreational purchases taxed at 20% and medical purchases taxed at 4%.
