Montana Lawmaker Proposes Consumer Registration and Surveillance for Cannabis Purchases

LOS ANGELES- A Republican lawmaker in Montana has introduced legislation that would require individuals aged 21 and older to register with the state Department of Revenue and pay a $200 annual fee to legally purchase cannabis. The proposed bill mandates that consumers obtain a registration card, which must be presented at the point of sale. Retailers would be responsible for verifying the validity of these cards before completing any transaction. Failure to comply with these requirements could result in penalties for both consumers and retailers.

The proposal has raised concerns among civil liberties advocates and industry stakeholders, who argue that such measures could infringe on personal privacy and deter individuals from participating in the legal cannabis market. Critics also highlight the potential for increased administrative burdens on both consumers and businesses, as well as the possibility of driving consumers back to the unregulated market.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it is expected to undergo further scrutiny and debate. The outcome will have significant implications for the state’s cannabis policy and its alignment with voter-approved legalization measures.