Marijuana Licensing
Would you like free news, updates, and analysis regarding the Michigan Medical Marihuana Facility Licensing Act in Michigan? Marihuana Licensing is always changing and morphing. Get updated information on whats going on with the Michigan Cannabis Lawyers.
CRA Reminds Licensees of Impending FDA Ban of FD&C Red No. 3 Color Additive
February 18, 2025 – The CRA announced today that it is requiring licensee compliance by January 15, 2027 with the Food and Drug Administration’s recent January 15, 2025 announcement that authorization for the use of FD&C Red No. 3 in foods, supplements, and drugs has been revoked.
CRA licensed producers may be affected by the prohibition of Red No. 3, which is added to products to impart red coloring. Products such as candies, gummy base, powders, and capsules used by CRA licensed producers in edible marijuana products may currently contain Red No. 3.
Producers must work with their suppliers to source alternative color additives and ingredients to those containing Red No. 3. Producers currently incorporating Red No. 3, or an ingredient containing Red No. 3, into products should expect to change written product formulations and labeling to reflect the new ingredient(s) and color additive(s) utilized.
Food and supplement manufacturers must discontinue use of Red No. 3 in products by January 15, 2027, and drug manufacturers must discontinue their use by January 18, 2028.
As the CRA defines edible marijuana products as any product containing marijuana that is intended for human consumption in a manner other than inhalation, all edible marijuana products that currently contain Red No. 3 must be reformulated by the earliest compliance date of January 15, 2027. This includes items that may be offered in forms similar to traditional drugs, such as capsules or powders.
Licensees should note that producers may continue to find that their suppliers offer items containing Red No. 3, as the prohibition for traditional drugs containing the color additive is not in effect until 2028. Additionally, Red No. 3 may still be listed in the Food and Drug Administration’s Inactive Ingredient Search for Approved Drug Products until 2028.
Any questions for the CRA regarding the use of Red No. 3 color additive may be directed to CRA-Enforcement@michigan.gov.
Cannabis Regulatory Agency Announces Voluntary Vape Recall (BLOOM)
February 11, 2025 – In the interest of public health and safety, Exhale Systems Inc (AU-P-0000495) of Detroit, in conjunction with the Cannabis Regulatory Agency, is conducting a voluntary recall of vapes offered for sale in the Michigan market.
Various flavors of BLOOM Classic and BLOOM Live brand vape cartridges contained Medium Chain Triglyceride Chain (MCT) oil and should not be consumed.
Exhale Systems Inc has identified sales locations that have this product in their inventory and are working with stores to retrieve and dispose of any recalled product in stock.
Sales locations have posted signs advising consumers to return this product to the sales location from which it was purchased or dispose of it.
The impacted products include the following strains: Alien Jack, Blue Dream, Cereal Milk, Champagne Kush, Durban Gelato, Face Off OG, Forbidden Fruit, Green Crack, Jack Herer, Maui Wowie, Pineapple Express, Pineapple Sherbert, Rainbow Runtz, Skywalker, White Widow.
Consumers who purchased these flavors of BLOOM vape cartridges any time after September 1, 2024 should check the recall bulletin. Consumers with a recalled vape should return it to the sales location from where it was purchased or dispose of it safely.
Consumers who have experienced adverse reactions after using these products should report their symptoms and product use to their healthcare providers. Consumers are encouraged to also report any adverse reactions to marijuana product to the CRA via the Adverse Reaction Form or by phone at 517-284-8599. A licensee who becomes aware of any adverse reactions to a marijuana product must notify the CRA and enter the information into METRC within one business day.
CRA Announces New Testing Requirement for MCT Oil
June 27, 2024 – Today, Michigan’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) issued a technical bulletin announcing that MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) oil will be added as a target analyte for marijuana vape cartridges as part of the Sampling and Testing Technical Guidance for Marijuana Products, effective October 1, 2024.
MCT oil, commonly derived from coconut or palm oil, is primarily used in oral supplements and food products. However, when aerosolized and inhaled, MCT oil may pose dangers to respiratory health. Inhalable marijuana products that fail testing for MCT oil cannot be remediated.
“From a public health and safety standpoint, the potential for adverse effects with MCT oil underscores the importance of safety guidelines for product development,” said CRA Executive Director Brian Hanna. “Michigan’s licensed marijuana businesses must prioritize respiratory safety when formulating or using inhalable products, opting for ingredients that have been thoroughly evaluated for their compatibility with lung health. I look forward to when our new state reference laboratory is up and running, advancing the health and safety of Michigan cannabis consumers with advanced testing for diluents.”
“Several of our retail members have been proactively pulling and testing their inventory to ensure the brands they showcase on their shelves do not contain MCT oil,” said Robin Schneider, executive director of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association. “Moving forward, this testing will take place before the retailers purchase inventory from producers, easing the burden on retailers and ensuring that the products they sell are safe. Required testing for MCT oil will further protect cannabis customers from vape-related lung illnesses and is a win for both the industry and consumers.”
“I fully support the state’s decision to restrict the use of MCT oil in vape cartridges,” said MiNORML Executive Director Anqunette Sarfoh. “The health and safety of cannabis consumers must always be our top priority. Emerging evidence suggests that inhaling MCT oil can pose serious respiratory risks, and it’s imperative that we take proactive measures to prevent potential harm. By enforcing stricter regulations on vape product ingredients, Michigan is taking a significant step towards ensuring a safer cannabis industry for everyone and we commend the state’s commitment to protecting consumers.”
“I applaud the CRA’s decision to ban the use of MCT oil in all regulated vape cartridges,” said Anton Harb Jr., an Iraq combat veteran and founder of the Veteran Access Program in Michigan. “As the cannabis industry matures, so will the scientific and regulatory safety measures protecting it. This regulatory decision helps ensure the continued safety and well-being of all Michigan cannabis consumers.”
The CRA is committed to evidence-based decision-making when implementing technical guidance for licensed laboratories. As research into marijuana use, safety, and testing advances, the Sampling and Testing Technical Guidance for Marijuana Products may be revised and updated to reflect these changes.
Michigan CRA Issues Recall Bulletin and Product Advisory Bulletin
May 15, 2024 – In the interest of public health and safety, the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) issued a recall bulletin for 1,098 units of infused pre-rolls produced by Flavor Galaxy LLC (license no. AU-P-000373), located at 21015 John R Road, Hazel Park, MI 48030.
In its investigation, the CRA discovered that Flavor Galaxy LLC did not submit certain infused pre-rolls for testing in their final form. The statewide monitoring system (Metrc) indicated that the infused pre-rolls only had safety compliance testing for raw marijuana flower and potency and were not tested after Flavor Galaxy LLC added cannabis distillate and/or terpenes to the product. Consumers who purchased a Flavor Galaxy LLC produced infused pre-roll (with AU-P-000373 on the package label) between November 25, 2023, and May 6, 2024, should check the recall bulletin to determine if the product is subject to recall.
In addition, the CRA issued a product advisory bulletin alerting marijuana consumers to marijuana products that were not properly tracked in the statewide monitoring system (Metrc) by Flavor Galaxy LLC. In its investigation, the CRA reviewed Metrc and discovered that Flavor Galaxy LLC added marijuana product to numerous packages of pre-rolls after the packages had been sampled by a licensed laboratory for compliance testing. Metrc information also showed that Flavor Galaxy LLC added marijuana product to numerous packages of vape cartridges after the packages had been sampled by a licensed laboratory for compliance testing. A link to the Metrc tag numbers for affected products can be found in the product advisory bulletin.
Marijuana consumers who have experienced adverse reactions after using these products should report their symptoms and product use to their health care provider. Consumers are encouraged to also report any adverse reactions to marijuana product to the CRA via the Adverse Reaction Form or by phone at 517-284-8599. For more information about the CRA, please visit www.michigan.gov/CRA.
Cannabis Regulatory Agency Issues Reminder Regarding Illegal Sales of Marijuana in Michigan
April 23, 2024 – Today, Michigan’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) reminded licensees and businesses of their roles and responsibilities regarding the selling of cannabis in Michigan.
Under state law, THC is defined to include THCA and marijuana, generally, is defined as cannabis in any form with a THC concentration greater than 0.3%. Therefore, cannabis in any form with a concentration of THC (including THCA) greater than 0.3% is, by definition, marijuana. Under the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act (MMFLA), marijuana and industrial hemp have the same meaning as defined in the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MRTMA).
If law enforcement identifies an unlicensed business selling cannabis in any form with a concentration of THC (including THCA) greater than 0.3%, they can seize the product and the offenders may be subject to criminal charges.
“A person not licensed under the MRTMA or MMFLA who sells marijuana or possesses marijuana in quantities greater than allowed by statute is in violation of state law and the CRA will refer potential criminal complaints to the Michigan State Police,” said CRA Executive Director Brian Hanna. “We work shoulder to shoulder with law enforcement to ensure the health and safety of cannabis consumers in Michigan.”
“The Marijuana and Tobacco Investigation Section of the Michigan State Police is a key strategic partner of the CRA, and we are committed to investigating retailers who would offer for sale marijuana products and derivatives in violation of state law,” stated D/F/Lt. Thomas Kish, commander of the MSP Marijuana and Tobacco Investigation Section. “Further, both the MSP and CRA share health and safety concerns for consumers participating in Michigan’s licensed adult-use market and we will work diligently to do what we can to ensure these products meet all regulatory standards for safety.”
If members of the public witness businesses selling any cannabis in any form with a concentration of THC (including THCA) greater than 0.3%, without a license, or if employees suspect that their employer is selling cannabis in any form with a concentration of THC (including THCA) greater than 0.3%, without a license, they are encouraged to reach out to local law enforcement, the Michigan State Police, or the Cannabis Regulatory Agency.
CRA Warns of Specific Scam Targeted at Michigan Licensed Cannabis Businesses
The Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) is issuing this bulletin to notify licensed marijuana businesses about recent fraudulent activity in the cannabis industry.
This week, the CRA was informed by a CRA-licensed business that they were contacted by an individual claiming to work for the CRA and asking for immediate payment of licensing fees under the threat of license revocation.
The CRA reminds licensees that all communications from the CRA will come through Accela or from a Michigan.gov email address and that the CRA will not call licensees to collect payment of fees. In addition, the CRA reminds licensees that the CRA does not accept alternative payment methods such as Bitcoin.
Licensees are encouraged to have their staff verify the validity of a call or text with a manager or owner before processing any payments to an individual claiming to be from the CRA. Licensees and applicants are reminded that the administrative rules require they notify the CRA and local law enforcement within 24 hours of becoming aware – or within 24 hours of when they should have been aware – of the theft or loss of any product or criminal activity at the marijuana business.
Incidents of fraudulent activity or attempted fraudulent activity that coincide with the above themes should be reported to the CRA using the online reporting form process and should be reported to local law enforcement. Questions can be sent to the Cannabis Regulatory Agency Field Operations Section at CRA-CSS@michigan.gov.
Covert Law Firm
Stacy Adams
02:52 29 Jan 21
Ashley was very professional and delivered highly favorable results. I felt peace of mind knowing I was in the very best hands during one of the most challenging times in my personal life. Highly recommend .
Erick Roberts
20:19 05 Jan 21
Josh really cares about his clients. He has personally helped me multiple times on (2) separate cases. Criminal law & cps are two expertise areas i have personally witnessed. Josh has also worked wonders for a close friend of mine in the MJ field. If you are reading reviews or trying to decide if josh is the guy you need, you are looking in the right spot.
Colorado Ski Chairs
04:37 01 Jan 21
One of the smartest and most dedicated guys you’ll ever meet. Joshua has helped innovate and push the boundaries of modern justice in not only the medical marijuana field but in social justice and protecting and supporting families. He’s one of a kind. Fair, dedicated, intelligent and tireless. You’ll be pressed to find a better ally for any case you need help on.
Patrick Giddis
21:02 26 Dec 20
Joshua Covert has been extremely helpful and personable. Rare to find lawyers that will try to help no matter whether you retain them or not. I've dealt with a lot of lawyers but he's one of the most honorable.
Gee Rod
20:35 26 Dec 20
I first hired Josh last year for a criminal assault case in Clinton county. I decided to take that case to trial. I had a NOT GUILTY verdict in less then five minutes after deliberation. Since then I've continue to use Josh for numerous things. I am highly involved in the cannabis industry and Josh had my five year state wide noncompete agreement thrown out just last month. Josh and James have also helped me get my medical and recreational licensing for both grow and processing in the city of Lansing. They did all the trademarking for all my brands and logos. I am also using Josh for some other legal things that he doesn't specialize in like estate and will. I have utmost confidence in his abilities and I trust him. Josh and his team are really the best when it comes to law. I've put them up against big money a few times and came out on top. Josh and his firm are honest and hard working. If he doesn't know the answer to something he is sure to find it for you. You can't get much better then the Covert law firm. Highly recommended!
Joe Dunn
16:28 23 Dec 20
About two years ago, I was interested in the smaller commercial marijuana cultivation licenses in Michigan. I had many questions regarding the application process and understanding/clarification on the laws surrounding the commercial grows. I called Josh after getting his number from google. He answered my questions, but I had many more and I also needed help with the application process. He told me to move forward, I would need to deposit $2,000 and open an account with him. This would allow me to call or text him for quick questions and responses. I didn't think I would have $2,000 worth of questions, but he assured me, over the phone, that if I didn't have any more questions I could get money back that I didn't use. Fast forward to present day, I no longer need his services. I have $1,555 in my account. $445 was deducted for text and phone call questions that I have had over the past years. I reached out to him 4 weeks ago, to get my $1,555 back. First he tells me its non-refundable. I reminded him that he told me I would get any money back that I didn't use. After going back and forth, he agreed to give me my money back. 2 more weeks pass and nothing. I reach out to him again, he tells me he doesn't write checks, his assistant has to do it, blah blah blah. He tells me I will have it in a few days. That was 3 weeks ago. I still haven't got any money back. Not a word from Josh. DO NOT USE THIS LAW FIRM. DO NOT TRUST THIS GUY. If you do, make sure to audio record all conversations with him!!!! He will lie to you to get you to pay large deposit for services you dont need.
Kate Seward
16:57 29 Sep 20
In the beginning of my case, Ashley talked to Josh. Josh and Ashley told me I have nothing to worry about in the child custody case. Total took a lot off of my shoulders hearing that. Thank you to you both for traveling to Roscommon County for this case! You both rock and ready to be a bull in court in Nov. Thank you again!!
James McGillie
01:23 16 Sep 20
Best in the business. Client focused, responsive, and effective team of attorneys with practical advice and solutions to most any legal issue you face. HIGHly recommended 👊
Nicole Abbey
13:33 14 Sep 20
Covert Law is a law office that cares about the individuals they represent and are affordable. Josh will get it done!
Sara Eleanor Yarbrough
02:25 21 Aug 20
Although I was facing some serious things, Josh happily took my case and was there every step of the way. The retainer was very reasonable, communication was great, and his negotiations were very clear and to the point. He really made an intense, sometimes scary and emotional, situation a lot easier to go through. I never felt like he was trying to get money out of me. I can honestly say my outcome, and life going forward, is much easier from choosing to call him for legal aid.
Sam Postalot
17:20 07 Aug 20
Very knowledgeable always a pleasure to work with highly recommended been in the industry for years
Tony Nowak
15:57 07 Aug 20
Very professional, knowledgeable and willing to help point me in the right direction.
Randi Bagley
17:12 19 Feb 20
Excellent concise and knowledgeable, especially about medical marijuana. Call them if you need advice! They are very fair and generally want to help the cannabis community.
Chris C
17:27 15 Feb 19
Nickolas Calkins was recommended to me, and ever since the first time I to him I was in good hands. He was able to handle the case and help relieve the stress from it off of and communicate in a way that kept me at ease and well informed. He, and the entire staff at Covert Law really went above and beyond. I am grateful that I was introduced to them.
Roy Schmidt
00:50 26 Nov 18
Josh Covert is the best cannabis attorney in Michigan. Josh defended me on an OWI charge, operating while impaired on cannabis. Josh was outstanding in my defense. Josh is a good listener, kept me updated, asked my opinion, and really cares about his clients. Josh filed every motion (several) in my defense before my trail. During the trail Josh was professional but a bulldog in defending me against lies and lack of evidence by the arresting officers. When Josh was finished cross examining the arresting officers it took a jury less than an hour to find me NOT GUILTY! You will never go wrong with Josh Covert.
Vessel of Christ
22:19 17 Nov 18
Hands down the best Attorney in Michigan, cares for his clients, knows the laws, doesnt back down, and doesnt get pushed over like most attorneys by the corrupt system and corrupt prosecutors. This Job is meant for truly intelligent people that have a heart for truly helping the individual, and out of 15 different attorneys that I've had in my life. There is no comparison. When you truly know you have someone on your side, it takes away the fear the corrupt system wants you to feel
brian coon
16:50 16 Nov 18
I hired josh on my open case but he's been a good attorney, very , very knowledgeable on cannabis and cannabis laws.he's also will work with you. I feel if ur in need of a tip notch cannabis attorney I wouldn't look no mores and give his office a call.very good ppl in office also..thanks Josh !!!
Jennifer Dummer
16:23 16 Nov 18
Josh Covert is an amazing lawyer. He fought for us and got our case thrown out. I would highly recommend him. He's always there for us when ever we need advice or help.
