Marijuana Regulatory Agency Works with Industry Stakeholders to Keep Michigan's Children Safe

Media Contact: LARA Communications (517-335-LARA (5272))
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August 2, 2021 - Today, the Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA) issued an advisory bulletin with the objective of helping protect children in Michigan from accidentally ingesting edible marijuana-infused products. The advisory bulletin was developed in conjunction with marijuana industry stakeholders and provides applicants, licensees, and the public with written and pictorial guidance regarding marijuana-infused edible packaging and products.

'We need to remain vigilant in protecting children from accidentally ingesting marijuana products,' said MRA Executive Director Andrew Brisbo. 'When the products leave the stores, it is important that the packaging is not attractive to minors. Obviously, nothing we can do is as impactful as the watchful eyes of adults, but we want parents in Michigan to know that we are doing everything in our power to prevent children from unknowingly consuming marijuana products.'

'We applaud the Marijuana Regulatory Agency's ongoing commitment to public health and safety,' said Robin Schneider, executive director of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association. 'Our members are working diligently to ensure they are in compliance with all existing rules and regulations regarding cannabis packaging for edible products. We also urge all cannabis consumers who have children in their homes to take personal responsibility and utilize lock boxes which are readily available at most local health departments for free with no questions asked.'

'The Michigan Cannabis Manufacturers Association wholeheartedly supports the MRA's focus on preventing cannabis products from winding up in the hands of children,' said Stephen Linder, executive director of the Michigan Cannabis Manufacturers Association. 'As Michigan's leading cannabis industry association, we are committed first and foremost to customer and product safety, and we fully support product packaging that protects children. Michigan can and should be a national leader in cannabis safety, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This is a critical step toward achieving that goal.'

The MRA's administrative rules prohibit packaging and labeling of marijuana products in shapes and designs that would appeal to minors. The rules also prohibit products that could be easily confused with commercially sold candy. Edible marijuana products may not be associated with cartoons, caricatures, toys, designs, or shapes that would appeal to minors, including distinct shapes of humans, animals, or fruit, including artistic, caricature, or cartoon renderings.

The advisory bulletin provides many examples of non-compliant marijuana-infused products as well as options for licensees to repackage or place stickers on the non-compliant portion of the packaging. The restrictions do not apply to in-store displays that advertise the products to in-store customers.

It is best practice for consumers to lock all marijuana products in a lock box or safe to prevent accidental ingestion. If adults choose to use marijuana, they should be mindful of the safety of the children in their lives, just like they would with any other intoxicating substance.

If a child accidentally ingests marijuana, please call the poison control hotline (1-800-222-1222) and watch for the following signs:

• Problems waking or sitting up
• Difficulty breathing
• Sleepiness or drowsiness

If the reaction seems severe, call 911 or visit your nearest emergency department.

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