How do I become a caregiver?
I've been hearing from lots of people wanting information on becoming a caregiver. Michigan is still very early in the rule writing and implementation stages of the Act. Much still has to be determined, many questions still answered. Here is what we know so far. We will update this page regularly as more information becomes available.
Patients may designate a Primary Caregiver to assist with the medical use of marijuana. This does not give license to the caregiver to use medical marijuana.
Caregivers are entitled to the full protections from civil and criminal sanction and subject to the same limits as are patients;
2.5 oz of usable medical marijuana, and
no more than 12 plants.
The 2.5 oz/12 plant limit apply to the patient and Primary caregiver combined. For example:
The patient may not posses 2 oz and the caregiver possess an additional 2 oz, nor may the patient cultivate 10 plants and the caregiver cultivate an additional 10.
The patient may possess up to 2 oz and 3 plants and the caregiver up to 9 plants plus an additional .5 oz.
Additionally,
Caregivers who cultivate medical marijuana must do so in a "locked, enclosed facility." (DCH has not yet further defined a "locked, enclosed facility" but it probably is not your back yard and almost certainly not in public view.)
Caregivers must be at least 21 years old and have no drug felonies (there is no similar requirement for patients)
Primary Caregivers may assist no more than 5 patients.
Caregivers may use an Affirmative Defense of Medical Necessity.
DCH is not expected to begin taking applications for Primary Caregivers until late March or to begin issuing cards sooner than early April. After the Act is enacted into law, expected Dec 4, caregivers may use an Affirmative Defense.
As the forms to register as a Primary Caregiver become available, we will post them here.
I've heard from many people who are thinking about forming networks of caregivers and patients. My advice is to consult with your attorney first. There are several landmines here and without due care, well meaning people & groups could end up in deep trouble. If not properly organized and framed, these caregiver-patient networks may be construed as criminal syndicates by the federales. Be smart, spring for the $200 and consult with a good lawyer before proceeding. Greg Schmid at Schmid Law is my recommendation.
Links to equipment vendors coming soon
Links to cultivation guides & sites coming soon
what other info do you want to see here? info@MichiganMedicalMarijuana.org