MICHIGAN— Weed is cheaper than ever, industry leaders are fighting back against new taxes, more Michiganders are choosing bud over beer, and Ohio just found a new way to be Ohio.
Here’s what you need to know from the past week in Michigan weed:
FLOWER FLOOD: Michigan weed prices have officially hit rock bottom with the average ounce of weed selling for less than $60 in November. The cheap prices have been attributed, in part, to a massive outdoor harvest that flooded the already oversaturated market in October.
LEGAL BATTLE: The Michigan Cannabis Industry Association is vowing to appeal the recent court ruling that cleared the way for the state’s new 24% wholesale weed tax. Industry leaders say the judge got it wrong and warn the tax—set to take effect on Jan. 1—will accelerate layoffs, drive struggling dispensaries out of business, and push consumers back to the black market.
BEER VS. BUD: Michigan’s craft beer boom is cooling off, and legal weed is partly to blame. New reporting from MLive shows brewery growth has flattened as younger consumers choose weed over beer, while everyone else dabbles with canned cocktails and other beverages.
BORDER PATROL: Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine says he’ll sign a bill that would make it illegal for Ohioans to possess marijuana that was purchased in other states, including Michigan. The move could spook customers who regularly travel north for better weed.
SILVER STONERS: A new University of Michigan study says smoking and driving isn’t just a young-people problem. With 20% of cannabis users over age 50 admitting to driving within two hours of consuming cannabis, prevention campaigns may need to refocus their target audience.
LANSTERDAM ROYALTY: Pro Gro and Pure Options cleaned up in City Pulse’s annual Top of the Town awards with several wins—including being named Lansing’s top dispensary.
READ MORE: 14 last-minute weed gifts Michigan stoners will actually love
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