Michigan Cannabis Industry Files Lawsuit Over New Marijuana Tax

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Cannabis Industry Association has filed a lawsuit challenging part of the state’s newly approved fiscal year budget, specifically targeting a 24% wholesale tax on marijuana products set to take effect January 1.

The association is asking the Michigan Court of Claims to strike down the tax, arguing it is unconstitutional and creates a cumulative excise tax burden that sidesteps voter-approved measures. Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the state budget into law last week after legislative approval.

Traffic and Infrastructure Updates

Drivers in the Lansing area should prepare for an overnight closure on the U.S. 127 northbound ramp to I-96 eastbound, which will be shut down from 9 p.m. Wednesday to 5 a.m. Thursday for signage work. Two additional intermittent closures are planned along U.S. 127 between I-96 and Holt Road during the same time frame.

New U of M Health Facility Opens

In local healthcare news, U of M Health-Sparrow is opening a new urgent care and pharmacy on Wednesday in the 1000 block of Michigan Avenue, inside the former Rite Aid building. The pharmacy chain recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Acrisure to Cut 400 Jobs in Michigan

Meanwhile, Grand Rapids-based Acrisure announced plans to eliminate around 400 positions next spring, with nearly half of those cuts affecting its West Michigan operations. The company says accounting roles are being phased out as it incorporates artificial intelligence technology into its operations.

‘Pray Safe Act’ Introduced After Grand Blanc Tragedy

Following the deadly September 28 shooting and fire at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc — which left five people dead, including the suspect, and eight others injured — Michigan U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Elissa Slotkin have introduced the Pray Safe Act. The bipartisan bill is aimed at strengthening security and emergency preparedness for places of worship nationwide.

Northern Michigan Wildfire Contained

Finally, the Benzie Road wildfire near Houghton Lake in Roscommon County is now fully contained, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Crews continued dousing hotspots through Wednesday after the fire broke out over the weekend.