Busted for marijuana? The state may want to do business with you
Seattle - Key supporters of Inititative 502, legalizing recreational marijuana in Washington, made several recommendations to the liquor control board on Monday.
Seattle City Attorney Pete Holmes says some restrictions need to be relaxed and certain definitions redefined so the Seattle marijuana black market does not stay underground.
Holmes says he supports the board's current policy proposal to accept people into the legal industry even if they have a previous marijuana drug conviction, both misdemeanor and felony. Holmes says the board should look at every applicant on a case by case basis. In fact he says it's important the state converts growers and sellers in the black market to legitimize their business if I-502 for I-502 to be successful.
Medical marijuana is also a great challenge according to Holmes. He says Washington is overwhelmed with too many medicinal marijuana dispensaries. He says a lot of people who use marijuana for recreational reasons are getting their pot from these dispensaries. He wants the board to scrutinize medicinal marijuana industry so they are serving people who really need pot for medical reasons.
With I-502, the state is anticipating pot to be a draw for tourist. Under current law, there are no places safe places for tourists to smoke pot. Public consumption is not allowed.
Holmes is recommending the board study private use clubs.
The ACLU is also joining in on the debate. The group wants special packaging and marketing.
More details on the future of Washington's marijuana industry on Q13 Fox at 10.