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County Council blocks pot industry until rules are ready
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The Pierce County
Council unanimously voted Tuesday, July 2, to delay the start of the
marijuana market until state licensing rules are set and the county
adopts permanent zoning regulations.
Last fall,
Washington state voters approved Initiative 502, which creates a
framework for the licensing the production and sale of recreational
marijuana. The state Liquor Control Board is expected to release
rules governing the process later this year. The seven-member Council
wants to make sure there is adequate time to consider whether additional
local regulations will be needed in unincorporated areas.
"Like other local
communities around the state, we need to act now to ensure that the
marijuana industry doesn't get started before we have the opportunity to
consider its impacts on our citizens," said Councilmember
Doug Richardson (District 6).
Ordinance 2013-26
puts marijuana-related activities on hold
for six months. During that time, a working group of representatives
from five areas of county government - the Council, Executive's Office,
Sheriff's Department, Prosecutor's Office,
and Planning and Land Services - will work on draft regulations for the
Council's consideration this fall.
"There are a lot of
unanswered questions. This temporary delay gives us time to study our
options for local regulations," said Councilmember Jim McCune (District
3).
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MEDIA CONTACTS:
Councilmember Doug Richardson
Councilmember Jim McCune
jmccune@co.pierce.wa.us
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