Smokers Beware: New MT Laws Could Bring ‘Big Changes’

A summary of the key information is provided at the bottom of the article.

BUTTE, MT - Montana’s legal marijuana industry is on the verge of a seismic shift, as state lawmakers debate a series of proposed bills that could redefine how cannabis is sold, taxed, and consumed.

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With potential THC caps, changes to tax revenue distribution, and new restrictions on edibles, the future of legal weed in the Treasure State is uncertain.

Here’s everything you need to know about the latest proposals—and what they mean for Montanans who enjoy their cannabis.

The Big THC Cap Controversy: Senate Bill 443

One of the most contentious proposals is Senate Bill 443, sponsored by Sen. Greg Hertz, R-Polson.

This bill aims to cap the THC content of marijuana flower at 15%, significantly lower than the current limit of 35%.

While medical marijuana patients would be exempt from this cap, recreational users would see a drastic reduction in potency.

Why the Push for a THC Limit?

Supporters of the bill, including Hertz, argue that high-potency marijuana poses increased health risks, particularly for young users.

They claim that Montana has a responsibility to lead the charge in regulating THC levels for public safety.

Industry Response: A Devastating Blow

Not surprisingly, Montana’s marijuana industry is fighting back hard.

Growers and dispensary owners argue that virtually all of their current products exceed the proposed 15% limit, and adjusting would require years of development—if it’s even possible at all.

In response to these concerns, Hertz said he is open to delaying the implementation of the cap by a year, but industry leaders warn that even a delay won’t prevent severe economic consequences.

Where’s the Money Going? Senate Bill 307

The fight over marijuana regulations doesn’t stop at THC levels.

Another hotly debated bill, Senate Bill 307, introduced by Senate Majority Leader Tom McGillvray, R-Billings, seeks to redirect marijuana tax revenue away from conservation programs and instead funnel it into substance abuse prevention and marijuana law enforcement.

Supporters: It’s About Keeping the Public Safe

Advocates of SB 307 argue that marijuana tax revenue should be reinvested into addressing its negative impacts, such as substance abuse treatment and cracking down on illegal sales.

Opponents: Don’t Rob Peter to Pay Paul

However, conservation groups are outraged, claiming that the bill steals funding from crucial wildlife and recreation programs that Montanans have relied on for years.

These programs support state parks, trail maintenance, and habitat conservation—all of which currently receive funding from marijuana tax revenue.

Cracking Down on Edibles: House Bill 636 & Senate Bill 375

If you prefer edibles over smoking, new proposals could have a major impact on your options.

House Bill 636

Proposed by Rep. Jodee Etchart, R-Billings, this bill aims to:

• Limit the THC content in edibles

• Ban dispensaries from selling edibles in child-friendly shapes or packaging

• Prohibit edibles resembling desserts, such as brownies, cookies, and cupcakes

Senate Bill 375

Meanwhile, Senate Bill 375, introduced by Sen. Mark Noland, R-Bigfork, takes things even further by banning the sale of edible hemp products altogether.

Both bills are designed to reduce the risk of accidental consumption, particularly among children, but critics argue that they’re overly restrictive and could push consumers toward the black market.

What Happens Next?

These bills are still under consideration in the Montana Legislature, and it’s unclear how much support they have.

But if passed, they could take effect as early as next year, reshaping Montana’s cannabis industry—and the experience of every marijuana user in the state.

What This Means for Smokers in Montana

• Lower THC limits could mean weaker weed and fewer strain options for recreational users.

• Fewer edible choices could make it harder for non-smokers to consume marijuana legally.

• Conservation programs could lose funding, potentially impacting Montana’s outdoor spaces.

• Increased law enforcement funding could mean a stronger crackdown on illegal sales.

For now, Montana’s cannabis consumers and industry leaders are watching closely, hoping to push back against restrictions they see as unfair and unnecessary.

Will Montana’s marijuana market survive these proposed changes? Or will these laws drive customers—and businesses—out of state?

Time will tell, but one thing is certain: the battle over legal weed in Montana is just heating up.

Summary:

Montana lawmakers are considering several bills that could drastically reshape the state's marijuana industry.

Senate Bill 443 proposes capping THC levels at 15% for recreational marijuana, a move supporters claim will reduce health risks, but industry leaders argue it would cripple businesses and eliminate most current products.

Senate Bill 307 aims to redirect marijuana tax revenue from conservation programs to substance abuse prevention and law enforcement, sparking debate over funding priorities.

Additionally, House Bill 636 seeks to restrict edibles, banning those that resemble desserts or are marketed in child-friendly packaging, while Senate Bill 375 would prohibit all edible hemp products.

If passed, these bills could weaken product potency, limit edibles, shift tax revenue, and increase enforcement efforts, leaving Montana’s marijuana users and businesses uncertain about the future.