Grand Rapids Medical Growers will be Home-Based Businesses

A bud from a medical marijuana plant grown legally in a basement on Grand Rapids' Northwest Side.When it comes to regulating medical marijuana, Grand Rapids city commissioners prefer a homegrown approach.

Commissioners today decided to move ahead with a set of zoning regulations that will treat medical marijuana growers, also known as caregivers, as home-based businesses.

In 2008, Michigan voters adopted a constitutional amendment allowing for the distribution of medical marijuana. The law allows a caregiver to raise and supply medical marijuana for up to five patients.

The proposed city regulations, which do not allow for medical marijuana dispensaries or other commercial outlets, could be changed if the state develops rules that allow dispensaries, Mayor George Heartwell said.

City Planning Director Suzanne Schulz had suggested the city commission wait to adopt her proposed zoning rules until the state adopts rules of dispensaries.

"I don't think we should sit around and wait for the state to act," said 2nd Ward Commissioner Rosalynn Bliss.

- Article from The Grand Rapids Press.