John James Proposes Repeal or Reduction of Michigan's 24% Wholesale Marijuana Tax, Citing Economic Impact
John James, the Republican nominee for Michigan governor, is advocating for the repeal or significant reduction of Michigan's 24% wholesale marijuana tax. This tax was implemented as part of a bipartisan road funding deal signed by Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer last year. James argues that the tax inflates prices for consumers, grants an unfair advantage to illegal cannabis operators, and has failed to meet its projected revenue targets. He publicly announced his intention to address the tax in mid-August, following a campaign fundraiser organized by marijuana industry leaders, which generated nearly $90,000 for his campaign. The House Fiscal Agency initially projected the tax would generate $420 million annually for road infrastructure, but state budget officials reported only $73.4 million in the first six months of its implementation, falling short of even revised estimates. Democratic gubernatorial nominee Jocelyn Benson has not taken a firm stance on the tax, stating it is a 'new and emerging i...
