MI HB4851

Requires physicians to conduct full in-person medical evaluations and maintain medical records to establish a bona fide physician-patient relationship for medical marijuana certification.

Limits qualifying patients to possession of 2.5 ounces of usable marijuana and 12 plants in an enclosed, locked facility, with registered identification card required to avoid arrest.

Defines primary caregivers as individuals at least 21 years old with no felony convictions in past 10 years and no prior drug or assaultive crime convictions, allowing them to assist patients and receive compensation for costs.

Protects physicians from professional licensing board sanctions solely for providing medical marijuana certifications in good faith, while maintaining boards' ability to sanction for substandard patient evaluation or care.

Establishes affirmative defense to marijuana charges if physician confirms medical necessity, quantity is reasonable for uninterrupted treatment, and patient and caregiver collectively possessed marijuana for treating debilitating medical conditions.