Section 19-24.1-12 - Compassion centers1. A person may not process or produce or dispense usable marijuana or otherwise act as a compassion center in this state unless the person is registered as a compassion center.2. Except as otherwise provided under this section, the department shall register no more than: a. Two compassion centers with the sole purpose of operating as a manufacturing facility; and b. Eight compassion centers with the sole purpose of operating as a dispensary.3. The department shall establish an open application period for the submission of compassion center applications. At the completion of the open application period, the department shall review each complete application using a competitive process established in accordance with rules adopted under this chapter and shall determine which applicants to register as compassion centers.4. The department may register additional compassion centers if the department determines additional compassion centers are necessary to increase access to usable marijuana by registered qualifying patients and registered designated caregivers.5. If the department revokes or does not renew a compassion center registration certificate, the department may establish an open application period for the submission of compassion center applications.6. The department of commerce may not certify a compassion center as a primary sector business.Added by S.L. 2017, ch. 171 (SB 2344),§ 1, eff. 4/18/2017.