Medical marijuana overhaul on brink of collapse

Medical marijuana overhaul on brink of collapse

STEPHEN DOCKERY, Associated Press

HELENA — Regulation of Montana's booming medical marijuana industry hangs on the brink of collapse as lawmakers rush to find a compromise.

Senators missed a deadline for Senate Bill 423 Tuesday because there was no cost estimate following sweeping, last-minute changes to the bill. Now it will need a two-thirds majority Wednesday to clear the chamber.

Getting 34 votes could be a tall order given the strong opinions on the issue.

Some repeal advocates have made it clear they won't support any type of overhaul. Now some Senate Democrats say the measure is overly restrictive and they won't support it.

Adding to the uncertainty are recent federal raids that targeted medical marijuana businesses around the state.

Even if the measure clears the Senate, it faces House Republicans focused on repealing the law.

HELENA — Regulation of Montana's booming medical marijuana industry hangs on the brink of collapse as lawmakers rush to find a compromise.

Senators missed a deadline for Senate Bill 423 Tuesday because there was no cost estimate following sweeping, last-minute changes to the bill. Now it will need a two-thirds majority Wednesday to clear the chamber.

Getting 34 votes could be a tall order given the strong opinions on the issue.

Some repeal advocates have made it clear they won't support any type of overhaul. Now some Senate Democrats say the measure is overly restrictive and they won't support it.

Adding to the uncertainty are recent federal raids that targeted medical marijuana businesses around the state.

Even if the measure clears the Senate, it faces House Republicans focused on repealing the law.