CRA Permanently Excludes Youssef Barakat from Participation in Michigans Marijuana Market

The Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) has permanently excluded Youssef Barakat from being employed by or being a supplemental applicant of any medical or adult-use marijuana business in Michigan.

The CRA is authorized under the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MRTMA), the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act, and the administrative rules promulgated thereunder, to exclude a person from employment at, or participation in, a marijuana business.

The CRA alleges that Barakat engaged in conduct that is in violation of the marijuana statutes or administrative rules that could negatively impact public health, safety, and welfare during his ownership and employment at licensed adult-use marijuana retailer businesses Kzoo420, LLC dba Big Rapids Tree House Club (license no. AU-R-000760) and Kzoo420, LLC dba Bay City Tree House Club.

Michigan’s marijuana industry exclusion lists — both voluntary and involuntary — are available online and include individuals excluded from participating in the licensed marijuana industry in Michigan. Individuals may voluntarily exclude themselves from employment at, or participating in a marijuana business, by signing a Consent Order and Stipulation to resolve disciplinary action the CRA has initiated against them.

Licensees must screen prospective employees, supplemental applicants, and owners against the exclusion lists as they are prohibited from employing excluded individuals or allowing them to be supplemental applicants on a license.