County to accept $432,000 state grant to buy lock boxes, expand outreach for marijuana safety

Oakland County moved to accept a state medical marijuana operation and oversight grant of $432,000 to buy 12,000 lock boxes and locking bags, fund outreach and part of a health educator's time, and support an advertising campaign.

Kate Guzman presented the award and said the grant amount is roughly $4,000 more than the prior year. Guzman said the county intends to purchase 12,000 lock boxes and locking bags and to expand outreach; she told commissioners the items are popular and distribute quickly. Commissioners discussed potential distribution partnerships with local cannabis businesses so that the lock boxes could be made widely available.

Commissioners signaled support for the program and the committee voted to accept the grant. Staff said they will explore creative distribution channels and report back on implementation.