Why Is Michigan Losing Medical Marijuana Patients?

In states where medical marijuana is legal, it is to be expected to see an annual increase in patient enrollment, not a decline. Yet, a report in the Detroit News states that fewer patients are taking advantage of Michigan’s medical marijuana program for the second year in a row.

The latest statistics from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs shows that the medical marijuana program has been losing more than 10,000 patients a year since 2013. That is a significant decrease for a state that has been fighting for the life of its program; working to pass legislation to allow the use of edibles and dispensaries. But even with the absence of dispensaries, the program allows for cultivation, which gives patients the right to grow several plants. So, what's the problem?

Interestingly, no one seems to have an explanation for Michigan’s decline in medical marijuana patients. There is speculation that regulatory confusion over dispensaries has some people concerned that they will be prosecuted. Furthermore, cultivation can be an expensive investment for some patients to get involved in.

Perhaps once the state resolves the program's regulatory issues, the thousands of patients who have fallen off the grid will find their way back. Until then, they will likely lean on the black market for their medicine.