A new bipartisan proposal filed today in the Michigan House of Representatives would authorize the creation of a state-operated marijuana reference laboratory.
The measure, House Bill 4501, has been referred to the House Regulatory Reform Committee for consideration.
Filed by Representatives Mike Mueller (R) and Tyrone Carter (D), the bill seeks to amend the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act by expanding the duties of the state’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA). Specifically, the legislation would empower the CRA to “establish and operate a marihuana reference laboratory” to support its investigations and research. The lab would also be tasked with developing and optimizing testing methods for marijuana products in the state.
Under the bill, the CRA would continue to oversee licensing, compliance, and enforcement under Michigan’s marijuana laws. The measure also reiterates the agency’s authority to take disciplinary actions, investigate licensees, and submit annual reports to the governor detailing license statistics, licensee demographics, expenditures, and enforcement actions.
The bill states that those involved in operating or advising a licensed marijuana business cannot be employed by or consult for the CRA to avoid conflicts of interest.
Supporters say a state-run lab could enhance the CRA’s ability to regulate the industry by ensuring consistent, science-based testing methods across Michigan’s marijuana market. The proposal comes amid growing scrutiny of private testing facilities and their varying results across the state.
