Cannabis Regulatory Agency excludes individual from Michigan's marijuana market

Marlon I. Brown, DPA Director
Marlon I. Brown, DPA Director | Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

The Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) has taken decisive action by permanently excluding Youssef Barakat from any employment or participation in Michigan's medical or adult-use marijuana market. This decision, announced on May 6, 2025, is grounded in the CRA's authority under the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MRTMA), the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act, and related administrative rules.

The CRA has alleged that Barakat engaged in activities violating marijuana statutes or administrative rules. These actions are said to potentially impact public health, safety, and welfare negatively during his tenure 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 maintains exclusion lists for its marijuana industry, accessible online. These lists include individuals who are either voluntarily or involuntarily excluded from participating in the state's licensed marijuana sector. Voluntary exclusion can be initiated by signing a Consent Order and Stipulation to address disciplinary actions initiated by the CRA.