A state cannabis industry group is planning to appeal a court decision that clears the way for a new 24% tax on marijuana products to take effect on New Year’s Day in Michigan.

Lawmakers approved the new tax as part of last-minute budget negotiations in October. The Michigan Cannabis Industry Association filed a lawsuit against the tax almost immediately, but the Michigan Court of Claims this month said the tax can move forward.

Now Michigan Cannabis Industry Association spokesperson Rose Tantraphol tells us the group “very much does plan to file an appeal.” She says the association remains “steadfast in our belief that when the Legislature imposed this 24% wholesale tax, it violated the will of the voters who approved the 2018 citizen ballot initiative.”

Tantraphol adds the Michigan cannabis industry has been an economic engine for Michigan since legalization, with the industry creating 47,000 new jobs, pumping $331 million each year to schools, roads, and other public priorities through the 10% excise tax now collected. It’s also generated $188 million in annual sales taxes.

Tantraphol says, “This move by the Legislature jeopardizes all of that.” She tells us as a result of the new tax, “Businesses will close.”