We have covered the issue of federal criminal liability for legal medical marijuana distribution in the past. This is a big issue for Colorado residents and entrepreneurs who find themselves caught in the middle of a battle for power between the state and federal governments. The result has been federal criminal drug charges in some cases and the forced closure of legal businesses in others.
This week the U.S. District Attorney renewed efforts to shut down legal medical marijuana dispensaries located within 1,000 feet of schools. In the third round of letters sent out recently the DA ordered ten more dispensaries to move or close their doors within 45 days or be subject to federal charges. A total of 47 legal business have already been forced to close.
Local authorities have pointed out that this is a matter of local zoning and land use ordinances. The district attorney for Boulder told reporters that he sees no reason why the federal government should be getting involved with matters usually left to individual communities and city councils.
Legalizing marijuana is popular among Colorado voters and they are likely to vote to legalize recreational access to the controlled substance in an amendment on the ballot this November. About 61 percent of voters said they were in favor of the amendment in a recent poll.
Federal authorities continue to fight against this tide of acceptance and many Colorado residents see this crackdown as an effort to undermine local decision making.
Our Colorado law firm handles various federal crimes and drug charges. More information on our practice is available on our website.
Source: Huffington Post, "Medical Marijuana Crackdown: 10 More Colorado Pot Dispensaries Near Schools Ordered to Shut Down or Move," August 6, 2012.
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