Former Michigan Republican House Speaker Pleads Guilty To Accepting Bribes From Marijuana Businesses

Former Michigan House Republican leader Rick Johnson has pleaded guilty to accepting bribes from businesses seeking marijuana licenses in the state. Johnson chaired the Medical Marijuana Licensing Board from 2017-2019, during which time he received cash payments and other benefits totaling at least $110,200 from businesses and lobbyists seeking medical marijuana licenses. Johnson faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. This guilty plea comes as investigators continue to look into how money has influenced marijuana policymaking in Michigan. Lobbyists Brian Pierce and Vincent Brown, who allegedly gave Johnson $42,000 in cash and benefits, have also agreed to plead guilty and cooperate with investigators. Michigan’s marijuana business raked in $2.3 billion in 2022, making it the second-largest cannabis market in the U.S. behind California. Don’t miss out on the latest news, download the Daily Wire app now!