Tag: Michigan cannabis

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – October 13, 2023

  1. Cannabis Regulatory Agency Seeks to Update Michigan’s Marihuana Rules

The Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency (“CRA”) recently filed a Request for Rulemaking to begin the process of updating Michigan’s Marihuana Rules. The CRA is asking for feedback—comments or suggestions can be sent to CRA-AdminRules@michigan.gov.

Why it Matters: The proposed updates, a summary of which can be found here, would impact licensing, social equity, financial compliance, and a host of other issues.

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  1. Client Alert: October 14 Deadline: Medicare Part D Notice of Creditable (or Non-Creditable) Coverage

Medicare Part D notices (of either creditable or non-creditable coverage) are due for distribution prior to October 15th.

Why it Matters: With respect to group health plans including prescription coverage offered by an employer to any Medicare Part D eligible employees (whether or not retired) or to Medicare Part D Medicare-eligible spouses or dependents, the employer must provide those individuals with a Notice of Creditable or Non-Creditable Coverage to advise them whether the drug plan’s total gross value is at least as valuable as the standard Part D coverage (i.e., creditable). Read more from your Fraser Trebilcock attorney.

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  1. Michigan Cannabis Sales Exceed $274 Million in September

Cannabis sales surpassed $274 million in September, via the monthly report from the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency. Michigan adult-use sales came in at $269,813,092.72, while medical sales came in at $4,915,502.78, totaling $274,728,595.50.

Why it Matters: Marijuana sales remain strong in Michigan, particularly for recreational use. However, there still are significant concerns about profitability and market oversaturation that the industry is contending with.

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  1. U.S. Supreme Court Clarifies Legal Standard for Threatening Speech in Counterman V. Colorado

The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Counterman v. Colorado addressed the longstanding ambiguity surrounding the standards for criminal prosecution based on perceived threats of violence.

Why it Matters: The Court held that such a prosecution requires proof that the defendant subjectively understood the threatening nature of the statement such that making the statement was at least reckless. This case not only delves deep into First Amendment protections but also has broad implications for online communications and interactions. Read more from your Fraser Trebilcock attorney.

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  1. Business Education Series – Maximizing Productivity: Strategies for More Effective Workdays

Productivity is a habit and it’s something you can become better at every day by choosing the methods and tricks that work for you.

Why it Matters: In the October Business Education Series program, Emmie Musser, Future of Work Strategist with TechSmith, is going to discuss some tried-and-true strategies for more productive and effective workdays. Learn more.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher
Employee Benefits | Bob Burgee
Employee Benefits | Sharon Goldzweig
Criminal Law | Paula Spicer

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – September 29, 2023

  1. Detroit Mayor’s Land Value Tax Plan Moves to House Floor

Earlier it was covered that Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan spoke to lawmakers at the House Tax Policy Committee hearing on his land value tax plan. The Committee passed the proposed plan, and it now moves onto the House Floor.

Why it Matters: According to the plan laid out online, if enacted, would replace certain tax rates for homes and property structures with a higher rate of tax on land, with the purpose of targeting unused, unproductive, or vacant land while providing benefits to homeowners and businesses.

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  1. Momentum Builds for Michigan Clean Energy Bill

Clean energy bill sponsors in the Michigan Senate took public testimony during a committee hearing last week, as the Michigan legislature continues to push for comprehensive clean energy legislation. Among policies being debated include setting a carbon-free energy standard, reducing energy waste, increasing access to solar power, and expanding electric vehicle charging stations.

Why it Matters: Beyond environmental goals, access to significant federal funding hangs in the balance. In order to access certain funds allocated under the federal Inflation Reduction Act, states must adopt certain clean energy standards into law.

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  1. Employee Benefits Attorney

Fraser Trebilcock is seeking applications for a position in our Firm from well-qualified attorneys with strong experience in employee benefits, including employer sponsored retirement plans, employee health plans and general ERISA compliance.

Why it Matters: The successful candidate should have a solid and portable client base. Fraser will consider candidates who may lack a portable client base provided they have a solid background in these practice areas and demonstrate an aptitude for client service and growth. Learn more and to apply.

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  1. Michigan 2023 Cannabis Sales Through 6 Months Exceeds 2022 Sales by Almost $400 Million

Per data released by the Cannabis Regulatory Agency, through six months of sales in 2023, totaling $1,426,137,854.75, Michiganders have exceeded sales compared to 2022 data through six months, which totaled $1,029,451,152.66.  This is an almost $400 million increase through the first six months of this year.

Why it Matters: Marijuana sales remain strong in Michigan, particularly for recreational use. However, there still are significant concerns about profitability and market oversaturation that the industry is contending with.

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  1. Business Education Series – Maximizing Productivity: Strategies for More Effective Workdays

Productivity is a habit and it’s something you can become better at every day by choosing the methods and tricks that work for you.

Why it Matters: In the October Business Education Series program, Emmie Musser, Future of Work Strategist with TechSmith, is going to discuss some tried-and-true strategies for more productive and effective workdays. Learn more.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Real Estate | Jared Roberts
Energy Law | Mike Ashton
Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – September 22, 2023

  1. Ten Michigan Colleges Will Accept Any State High School Graduate with GPA of 3.0 or Higher

A coalition of 10 public colleges announced this week they will admit any in-state student with at least a 3.0 GPA for admission next fall. The colleges, including Central Michigan University and Eastern Michigan University, also formed the Michigan Assured Admission Pact.

Why it Matters: The Michigan economy requires a well-educated workforce, including high school graduates who are motivated to attend college. According to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education, the number of high school graduates in Michigan has been declining since 2008.

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  1. Michigan Supreme Court Modifies Open and Obvious Legal Doctrine

Recently, the Michigan Supreme Court significantly modified a decades old legal doctrine that will have wide reaching impacts on property owners and lessees. In its decision in a pair of consolidated cases (Kandil-Elsayed v F & E Oil, Inc and Pinsky v Kroger Co of Mich), the state’s high court effectively abrogated a legal doctrine known as “open and obvious.”

Why it Matters: Now, in light of the Kandil-Elsayed and Pinsky decisions, the nature of an open and obvious condition is evaluated as an element of comparative fault that may reduce a plaintiff’s recovery but will not act as complete bar to recover. Moreover, the issue of comparative fault is a question of fact (that is a determination to be made by the jury). Learn more.

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  1. Attorney Michael H. Perry Honored as “Lawyer of the Year” in Environmental Law in Lansing

Fraser Trebilcock attorney Michael H. Perry has been named the Best Lawyers in America© 2024 Environmental Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Lansing. This is a high distinction, as only one attorney in each practice area in each community is identified as “Lawyer of the Year.”

Why it Matters: “I am honored to be recognized by Best Lawyers© as a 2024 ‘Lawyer of the Year’ for Environmental Law in Lansing,” said Mike Perry. Because lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed, inclusion in Best Lawyers© is considered a singular honor. Only five percent of attorneys in Michigan are awarded the honor. Read more about Mike.

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  1. CRA Publishes August 2023 Data; Average Price Decreases

Per data released by the Cannabis Regulatory Agency, the average retail price for adult-use sales of an ounce of cannabis is $94.16, a decrease from $98.65 in July. This is still a large decrease from August 2022, where the average price was $116.84.

Why it Matters: While the prices of cannabis and cannabis-related products continue to decrease and make consumers happy, growers on the other hand are seeing profits decrease resulting in them seeking ways to halt new licenses to be granted in an effort to steady prices. Contact our cannabis law attorneys if you have any questions.

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  1. Business Education Series – Practical A.I. Business Solutions

Explore the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in the business landscape during our Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Education Series.

Why it Matters: From understanding the capabilities of AI models like ChatGPT to creating customized workflows using API integrations and automation tools, discover how AI can drive innovation and efficiency across industries. Learn more.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Higher Education | Ryan Kauffman
Insurance Law | Ryan Kauffman
Environmental Law | Mike Perry
Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – September 15, 2023

  1. Michigan House Bill Would Provide Tax Credit for High School or College Graduates Who Move to Michigan

Michigan House Bill 4934, which is pending in the House, would provide tax incentives for high school and college graduates outside of Michigan to move to the state. The bill would allow them to claim a tax credit the taxpayer paid on a qualified student loan during the tax year on student loans paid starting Jan. 1, 2024. 

Why it Matters: The bill would address two challenges: (1) the heavy burden of student loan debt for many young people, and (2) the “talent gap” faced by Michigan employers.

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  1. Attorney Michael H. Perry Honored as “Lawyer of the Year” in Environmental Law in Lansing

Fraser Trebilcock attorney Michael H. Perry has been named the Best Lawyers in America© 2024 Environmental Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Lansing. This is a high distinction, as only one attorney in each practice area in each community is identified as “Lawyer of the Year.”

Why it Matters: “I am honored to be recognized by Best Lawyers© as a 2024 ‘Lawyer of the Year’ for Environmental Law in Lansing,” said Mike Perry. Because lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed, inclusion in Best Lawyers© is considered a singular honor. Only five percent of attorneys in Michigan are awarded the honor. Read more about Mike.

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  1. Detroit Mayor Discusses New Land Value Tax Plan With Lawmakers

This week, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan spoke to lawmakers at the House Tax Policy Committee hearing on his land value tax plan, which would change property taxes while encouraging economic growth across Detroit.

Why it Matters: According to the plan laid out online, if enacted, would replace certain tax rates for homes and property structures with a higher rate of tax on land, with the purpose of targeting unused, unproductive, or vacant land while providing benefits to homeowners and businesses.

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  1. Michigan Cannabis Sales Exceed $276 Million in August

Cannabis sales surpassed $276 million in August, via the monthly report from the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency. Michigan adult-use sales came in at $270,628,119.44, while medical sales came in at $5,643,278.24, totaling $276,271,397.68. 

Why it Matters: Marijuana sales remain strong in Michigan, particularly for recreational use. However, there still are significant concerns about profitability and market oversaturation that the industry is contending with.

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  1. Business Education Series – Practical A.I. Business Solutions

Explore the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in the business landscape during our Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Education Series. 

Why it Matters: From understanding the capabilities of AI models like ChatGPT to creating customized workflows using API integrations and automation tools, discover how AI can drive innovation and efficiency across industries. Learn more.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Higher Education | Ryan Kauffman
Environmental Law | Mike Perry
Real Estate | Jared Roberts
Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher 

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – August 25, 2023

  1. Housing Inequality May be on the Michigan Legislature’s Agenda this Fall

Recent news reports suggest that one of the Michigan’s legislature’s priorities for this fall will be to pass a slate of bills meant to address housing inequality. This may include a 15-20 omnibus bill package addressing issues such as (according to Mlive.com) “efforts to clarify the organizing rights of tenants, requiring landlords pay for the relocation of tenants with red-tagged buildings and establishing a standard criteria for what a housing inspector may consider a safe and livable dwelling.”

Why it Matters: With high mortgage rates and low for-sale housing inventory, affordable housing is a hot-button issue for many Michiganders. Data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition’s Out of Reach report ranked Michigan 28th worst in the nation for rental affordability.

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  1. Business Education Series – Practical A.I. Business Solutions

Explore the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in the business landscape during our Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Education Series. 

Why it Matters: From understanding the capabilities of AI models like ChatGPT to creating customized workflows using API integrations and automation tools, discover how AI can drive innovation and efficiency across industries. Learn more.

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  1. Michigan Supreme Court Clarifies the Difference Between “Requirements” and “Release-by-Release” Contracts Under the Uniform Commercial Code

In an important decision that impacts customers and suppliers in the manufacturing industry, the Michigan Supreme Court, in MSSC, Inc. v. AirBoss Flexible Prods. Co., clarified the contractual circumstances under which a supplier can become bound to a long-term “requirements contract” under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Why it Matters: In light of the Supreme Court’s decision, buyers and sellers of goods should review their contracts with legal counsel to evaluate whether they meet the standards for a requirements contract. Read more on the topic from your Fraser Trebilcock attorney.

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  1. CRA Publishes July 2023 Data; Average Price Increases

Per data released by the Cannabis Regulatory Agency, the average retail price for adult-use sales of an ounce of cannabis is $98.65, an increase from $89.27 in June. This is still a large decrease from July 2022, where the average price was $121.58.  

Why it Matters: While the prices of cannabis and cannabis-related products continue to decrease and make consumers happy, growers on the other hand are seeing profits decrease resulting in them seeking ways to halt new licenses to be granted in an effort to steady prices. Contact our cannabis law attorneys if you have any questions. 

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  1. Michigan Supreme Court Rules on Open and Obvious Doctrine

In its decision in a pair of consolidated cases (Kandil-Elsayed v F & E Oil, Inc and Pinsky v Kroger Co of Mich), the state’s high court did away with a legal doctrine known as “open and obvious.” Generally speaking, under this doctrine, a premises possessor (whether that is the landowner, land contract vendee, lessee, or other party with the right to possess the property) does not have a duty to warn individuals of potentially dangerous conditions on the premises if the condition is “open and obvious.”

Why it Matters: What happens next is anybody’s guess, but likely effects of this decision include an increase in the number of personal injury lawsuits filed, an increase in the number of personal injury cases going to trial, and across the board increases in property insurance rates for commercial and residential property owners.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Real Estate | Jared Roberts
Business & Tax | Robert Burgee
Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – August 18, 2023

  1. Hosting an Event that Involves Cannabis in Michigan Requires Proper Licensing

As the legal cannabis industry continues to grow in Michigan, more events involving the consumption of cannabis are being hosted across the state. As the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) discussed in a recent information release, such events require proper licensing. Specifically, according to the CRA, “CRA rules require a person who allows consumption of marijuana products on the premises of a non-residential location – and charges a fee for entry, sells goods or services while individuals are consuming on the premises, or requires membership for entry – must acquire either a designated consumption establishment license or a temporary marijuana event license. An application for a temporary marijuana event license must be submitted 90 days prior to the date of the event.”

Why it Matters: Violations of requirements may result in disciplinary action. If you have any questions, please contact your cannabis law attorneys at Fraser Trebilcock.

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  1. Fraser Trebilcock Attorney Thaddeus Morgan Obtains Summary Judgment for Firm Client; Sixth Circuit Affirms Dismissal

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit affirmed a decision by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan, which granted summary judgment for the firm’s client, who was represented by Fraser Trebilcock attorney Thaddeus Morgan.

Why it Matters: The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit did not find either of the district court’s decisions erroneous, affirming the denial of the Plaintiff’s motion to amend and granting summary judgment to the defendants. Read more on the case.

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  1. Michigan Cannabis Sales Exceed $276 Million in July

Cannabis sales surpassed $276 million in July, via the monthly report from the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency. Michigan adult-use sales came in at $270,603,217.84, while medical sales came in at $6,143,046.23, totaling $276,746,264.07.

Why it Matters: Marijuana sales remain strong in Michigan, particularly for recreational use. However, there still are significant concerns about profitability and market oversaturation that the industry is contending with.

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  1. Business Education Series – Setting Meaningful Goals and Time Blocking for Success

On August 22, 2023, gain valuable knowledge and skills to set meaningful goals, establish priorities, and effectively manage their time through the practice of time blocking.

Why it Matters: Participants will learn practical strategies and techniques to enhance their goal-setting abilities, develop a clear sense of direction, and optimize their productivity. Learn more.

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  1. Michigan Supreme Court Clarifies the Difference Between “Requirements” and “Release-by-Release” Contracts Under the Uniform Commercial Code

In an important decision that impacts customers and suppliers in the manufacturing industry, the Michigan Supreme Court, in MSSC, Inc. v. AirBoss Flexible Prods. Co., clarified the contractual circumstances under which a supplier can become bound to a long-term “requirements contract” under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Why it Matters: In light of the Supreme Court’s decision, buyers and sellers of goods should review their contracts with legal counsel to evaluate whether they meet the standards for a requirements contract.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher
Litigation | Thaddeus Morgan
Business & Tax | Ed Castellani

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – June 16, 2023

  1. Changes to Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act

Employers should be aware of recent actions taken by the Michigan legislature with respect to Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA). Governor Whitmer recently signed into law an amendment that extends the ELCRA’s prohibitions against discrimination to individuals who have terminated a pregnancy. On June 8, 2023, the Michigan House of Representatives voted to pass, which amends the definition of race within ELCRA to ban discrimination based on hair and other traits associated with racial or ethnic identity. Governor Whitmer is expected to sign this bill into law.

Why it Matters: Lawmakers who introduced the bills argue that the legislation will increase access to support services for domestic and sexual violence victims, and also will protect their privacy and shielding them from additional harassment.

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  1. CRA Publishes May 2023 Data, Average Price Hovers

Per data released by the Cannabis Regulatory Agency, the average retail price for adult-use sales of an ounce of cannabis is $90.64, a small increase from $87.76 in April. This is still a large decrease from May 2022, where the average price was $130.62.

Why it Matters: While the prices of cannabis and cannabis-related products continue to decrease and make consumers happy, growers on the other hand are seeing profits decrease resulting in them seeking ways to halt new licenses to be granted in an effort to steady prices. Contact our cannabis law attorneys if you have any questions.

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  1. Fraser Trebilcock Attorney Obtains Dismissal for Firm Client

Fraser Trebilcock attorney Jared Roberts recently obtained a dismissal in a circuit court case brought against a brokerage and salesperson.

Why it Matters: In this case, which involved interpretation of transaction documents, a county “Time of Sale” well and septic inspection ordinance and water quality issues, Mr. Roberts obtained dismissal in the first responsive document. Learn more about their practice and how they may be able to assist.

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  1. Detroit Mayor Unveils Land Value Tax Plan

At the Mackinac Policy Conference in May, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan announced a proposal, called the Land Value Tax Plan, that if passed, would change property taxes while encouraging economic growth across Detroit.

Why it Matters: According to the plan laid out online, if enacted, would replace certain tax rates for homes and property structures with a higher rate of tax on land, with the purpose of targeting unused, unproductive, or vacant land while providing benefits to homeowners and businesses.

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  1. CRA Revokes License for Marijuana Business for Illicit Products

The Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency announced on June 15 that it was revoking the license for marijuana business Candid Labs, which operates as Layercake Farms 2, after they were found to have illicit and unlicensed marijuana, in addition to other license violations including an inoperable video surveillance system.

Why it Matters: A requirement that every marijuana business must adhere to is properly working video surveillance system that is in place 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at all licensee locations. Failure to comply will result in fines, possible license suspension and/or license being revoked. Contact our cannabis law attorneys if you have any questions.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Labor, Employment & Civil Rights | Dave Houston
Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher
Real Estate | Jared Roberts

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – June 9, 2023

  1. Michigan House Approves Bills to Protect Domestic and Sexual Violence Victims

The Michigan House of Representatives, in bipartisan fashion, voted on June 7 to approve a series of bills that aims to increase support services and add privacy protections for victims and survivors of domestic and sexual assault. For example, House Bill 4421 would allow photos and videos of crime victims to be blurred if they are viewable in court proceedings that are made public.

Why it Matters: Lawmakers who introduced the bills argue that the legislation will increase access to support services for domestic and sexual violence victims, and also will protect their privacy and shielding them from additional harassment.

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  1. Michigan Cannabis Sales Exceed $245 Million in May

Cannabis sales surpassed $245 million in May, via the monthly report from the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency. Michigan adult-use sales came in at $238,867,535.00, while medical sales came in at $7,051,723.96, altogether totaling $245,919,258.96.

Why it Matters: Marijuana sales remain strong in Michigan, particularly for recreational use. However, there still are significant concerns about profitability and market over-saturation that the industry is contending with.

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  1. Client Alert: IRS Announces 2024 Adjustments for HSAs & Excepted Benefit HRAs

The IRS has released its 2024 annual inflation adjustments for Health Savings Accounts (“HSAs”) as determined under Section 223 of the Internal Revenue Code. Specifically, IRS Revenue Procedure 2023-23 provides the adjusted limits for contributions to a HSA, as well as the high deductible health plan (“HDHP”) minimums and maximums for calendar year 2024.

Why it Matters: HSA contributions for an individual will increase in 2024 to $4,150 from $3,850 in 2023, and the minimum deductible on a HDHP for an individual will increase to $1,600 in 2024 from $1,500 in 2023. Read more from your Fraser Trebilcock attorney.

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  1. NLRB General Counsel Issues Memo on Non-Competes

On May 30, NLRB General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo issued a memo that non-compete provisions in employment contracts and severance agreements violate the National Labor Relations Act except in limited circumstances.

Why it Matters: The memo details that non-compete agreements hinder the ability of the employee from exercising their rights to take collective action to improve their working conditions, making these non-competes unlawful under Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act.

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  1. Anti-Distracted Driving Laws Enforced June 30

Beginning June 30, Michigan motorists will be prohibited from using any mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle, even if at a stop sign or red light. This includes sending/receiving texts, accessing social media, or recording videos.

Why it Matters: First time offenders will face a $100 fine and/or 16 hours of community service, in addition to one point being added to the individual’s driving record. Penalties will increase for repeated violations, and on the third offense, individuals may be required to take a drivers improvement course.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher
Employee Benefits | Robert Burgee
Labor, Employment & Civil Rights | Dave Houston

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – May 19, 2023

  1. Plans for Binational Electric Vehicle Corridor Announced

On Tuesday, May 16, the United States and Canada announced plans to launch a binational electric vehicle corridor stretching from Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Quebec City. The corridor will include fast EV chargers approximately every 50 miles along the 872-mile route.

Why it Matters: In announcing the plans, officials said the plan would increase domestic manufacturing, strengthen supply chains and create jobs while supporting climate and alternative energy transportation goals.

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  1. Michigan Cannabis Sales Surpass $245 Million in April

Cannabis sales peaked over $245 million in April, via the monthly report from the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency. Michigan adult-use sales came in at $238,211,384.43, while medical sales came in at $7,842,858.60, altogether totaling $246,054,243.03.

Why it Matters: Marijuana sales remain strong in Michigan, particularly for recreational use. However, there still are significant concerns about profitability and market over-saturation that the industry is contending with.

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  1. May 24 Business Education Series

During this two-presentation dynamic program, attendees will learn about the SBA 504 Loan from Coty Gould with the MCDC (Michigan Certified Development Corporation), and Government Contracts from Mike Hindenach with APEX (formerly known as PTAC Procurement Technical Assistance Centers).

Why it Matters: The SBA 504 Loan presentation you will learn the basics of SBA 504 loan, the benefits and how to qualify and apply. MCDC is a non-profit certified by the US SBA to administer the SBA 504 Loan Program in Michigan. The SBA 504 loan provides small businesses with low-rate, long-term loans for building purchases, construction, and machinery and equipment. In addition, these loans require a smaller down payment than what traditional lenders can offer, allowing the business owner to preserve capital. Learn more and to register.

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  1. Fraser Trebilcock Welcomes Paula C. Spicer to the Firm

Fraser Trebilcock is pleased to announce the hiring of attorney Paula C. Spicer who will work primarily in the firm’s Lansing office.

Why it Matters: Ms. Spicer joins Fraser Trebilcock with expertise in complex real estate and commercial transactions, property tax appeals, health care facility formation, business operations, zoning law, and structuring of high-complexity laboratory facilities. Ms. Spicer also worked as an attorney in multi-family affordable housing financing through HUD (Housing and Urban Development). Learn more.

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  1. CRA Publishes April 2023 Data, Average Price Hovers

Per data released by the Cannabis Regulatory Agency, the average retail price for adult-use sales of an ounce of cannabis is $87.76, a small increase from $86.87 in March. This is still a large decrease from April 2022, where the average price was $133.19.

Why it Matters: While the prices of cannabis and cannabis-related products continue to decrease and make consumers happy, growers on the other hand are seeing profits decrease resulting in them seeking ways to halt new licenses to be granted in an effort to steady prices. Contact our cannabis law attorneys if you have any questions.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Energy, Utilities & Telecommunication | Mike Ashton
Business & Tax | Paula Spicer
Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher

Five Stories that Matter in Michigan This Week – July 1, 2022

Five Stories that Matter in Michigan This Week – July 1, 2022; Legal, Legislative, and Regulatory Insights

  1. Bills Easing Regulations on Michigan Child Care Providers Signed Into Law

Governor Whitmer recently signed into law Michigan House Bills 5041-5048, which increase the number of children family child care and group care homes can serve, and also lowers the minimum age for workers at such businesses.

Why it Matters: Many families struggle to find quality, affordable child care, which is partly to blame for the difficulty businesses in Michigan, and across the country, have had in finding workers over the last several years. In a statement, Governor Whitmer described child care as “the backbone of our economy.” The signing of this package of bills is also significant because it had support from Republicans and business groups, which may be a sign that more bipartisan legislation is on the way in the runup to the November elections.

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  1. Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee Approves Texting While Driving Bills

The Michigan Senate Judiciary Committee recently approved a package of bills expanding the scope of Michigan’s texting while driving laws, which would make requirements more stringent and penalties for violations more costly. The bills explicitly address social media use and live streaming.

Why it Matters: Distracted driving is dangerous. In 2020, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, 3,142 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers. Distracted driving is also costly for drivers, as those who violate distracted driving laws tend to see their insurance rates shoot up.

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  1. Marijuana Prices Plummet 41% in Michigan

In a recent public meeting, Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency Director Andrew Brisbo stated that legal marijuana prices fell 41% over the past year in Michigan.

Why it Matters: With inflation surging across the economy, falling prices in the marijuana industry mean that profits may be hard to come by. One of the secondary effects of price deflation is the risk of what is called “potency inflation.” In general, marijuana that is more potent—higher THC levels—is more expensive. That can lead to “lab shopping,” which involves producers trying to find a testing lab that will deliver high THC results so that more can be charged to the consumer.

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  1. Housing Market Cools Following Historic Run-Up

The National Association of Realtors recently reported that existing-home sales in May dropped 3.4% from April (four consecutive months of declining sales) and by 8.6% since May of last year. The latest S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Index also shows home price growth slowing, as well as a jump in the inventory of homes for sale.

Why it Matters: The residential real estate market is an important indicator of, and driver of, economic vitality across the broader economy. The early signs of a slowdown in the real estate market correlates to increases in mortgage rates due to inflation. Rates for a 30-year mortgage have rocketed higher, from around 3% earlier this year to over 6%, which has significantly reduced buying power for many people.

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  1. Sixth Circuit Draws the “State Action” Line at a City Manager’s Personal Facebook Page

The Sixth Circuit issued an opinion earlier this week in a case involving a city manager who shared both personal and city-related content on his personal Facebook page. After the city manager deleted comments made by a disgruntled citizen on posts about city policies, the citizen sued alleging that his First Amendment rights were violated. The lower court dismissed the citizen’s lawsuit, and the Sixth Circuit affirmed, ruling that under the facts of this case the city manager’s actions did not constitute “state action.”

Why it Matters: In this 21st Century digital era, where there are virtually no barriers to communication, it’s said that we are all “publishers,” especially on social media. This case helps draw the line for municipalities and their employees as to what communications they engage in may constitute personal action vs. state action.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Insurance Defense | Emily Vanderlaan

Real Estate | Jared Roberts

Cannabis | Klint Kesto

Labor, Employment & Civil Rights | Aaron Davis