What Does the Ann Arbor Hash Bash Mean for Marijuana in Michigan Today?

Now in its 54th year, the Ann Arbor Hash Bash remains a celebration and political rally for cannabis rights. But in the years since marijuana has been legalized in Michigan, what is the purpose of Hash Bash, and why is it relevant in today's environment?

According to an MLive report, Hash Bash organizer Jamie Lowell emphasized that, despite marijuana's legalization in Michigan, ongoing threats to cannabis policy continue. Activists are asking for cannabis to be removed from the state's controlled substances list, arguing it has medical benefits that run contrary to its current classification.

In addition, legislative proposals have been put forward that would place new taxes on cannabis. One includes a controversial wholesale tax that could increase the costs for consumers while hurting small businesses that deal in cannabis.

According to MLive's report, the marijuana industry pays a 10% excise tax and a 6% sales tax. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's proposed wholesale tax, however, could raise an estimated $470 million for state funding. When asked about the proposal, Lowell called it "ridiculous," arguing that it undermines the specific tax structure that voters approved in 2018. 

Other areas that Hash Bash calls attention to concern issues surrounding pediatric patients, who cannot use medically prescribed cannabis on school grounds, and the continued classification of cannabis as a controlled substance in Michigan.

This year's Ann Arbor Hash Bash will take place on Saturday, April 5, at noon at the University of Michigan Diag. Speakers for the event include: