Bill would let Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency operate a reference testing lab to audit private labs

Representative Rhett Mueller introduced House Bill 4501, which would authorize the Cannabis Regulatory Agency to operate a state reference testing laboratory and permit agency staff to possess marijuana "for the purposes of doing the testing" that the lab would perform. Derek Silva of the CRA testified that the bill simply codifies the agency's ability to possess marijuana in order to run the already-funded reference lab and to conduct audits, proficiency testing and investigations.

Silva said there are currently "17 independent testing labs in the state of Michigan" and described a problem called "lab shopping," where large producers can pressure private labs for favorable results. He said the state lab would act as "the umpire calling balls and strikes," conducting audits and quality checks so consumers can rely on product labels. The CRA received funding for the lab in fiscal year 2024 and has been building and planning the facility for two years, Silva said.

Claire Patterson, director of the CRA reference lab, described proficiency testing as a transparency tool: private labs, the CRA lab and others would test the same sample and compare results to identify discrepancies. Members asked whether the lab could test hemp beverages; Silva said it could, if a legal framework for those beverages were put in place. On enforcement, CRA witnesses said shelf audits and investigations would follow, and the cause (lab, grower or retailer) would determine any enforcement action.

CRA witnesses emphasized the agency does not intend to compete with private labs for routine client testing but rather to audit and support the integrity of existing testing. No committee vote on HB 4501 was recorded during the hearing.