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BILLINGS- Medical marijuana storefronts have become the norm around many Montana cities, but now an industry that blossomed overnight faces an uncertain future.

"It's an actual emotional roller coaster," said Rich Abromeit, owner of Montana Advanced Caregivers in Billings, "We have patients that have come in and fallen a part because of their fear of not having their medicine."

The Montana Legislature is taking a hard look at the Therapeutic Marijuana Act, which would repeal the current law and put enact new strict regulations.

"It's like playing a game of monopoly and they can change the rules at any given time," said Doug Medina, Montana Green Cross owner about the change from the 2005 voter approved initiative.

However, local governments have been dealing with the issue for quite some time. Last year, the Billings City Council placed a moratorium on all new medical marijuana businesses, until the legislature provides guidance.

At one time, as many as 80 medical marijuana businesses were licensed by the city of Billings. Right now there are 25 storefronts in the city, 22 compliant home occupations and 15 businesses operate outside of Billings, but have city business licenses. Also 18 shops had to close after they were found not to be in compliant with the city and state.

The legislature is currently looking at stopping for-profit caregiving or limiting the number of patients a caregiver can have to three patients.

"If we couldn't have storefronts or couldn't profit from the production of medicinal marijuana, then if I can't help myself, I'm not going to be able to help others," Abromeit said about the proposed restrictions.

However, caregivers say the impact on their patients would be immeasurable.

"They've been known to help me out. So for God's sake don't take away their living. A lot of us need it too," said an emotional Tina Slocum, a three-year medical marijuana patient dealing with COPD.

So, in the end, it's a waiting game for Billings caregivers.

All eyes are on Helena, where lawmakers finalized language in the Therapeutic Marijuana Act on Tuesday afternoon. The bill now heads to the House and Senate floors for final votes on the amendments.