April 11, 2012 – Sen. Mark Leno is sponsoring a bill, SB 1182, which would clarify SB 420 so as to make it clear that entities acting consistent with the Attorney General’s August 2008 guidelines may legally sell, cultivate, process, transport, etc. medical marijuana. At present, the legality of these activities is hotly disputed by hostile law enforcement officials, such as LA DA Steve Cooley. Leno’s bill is based on language proposed by Mendocino Sup. John McCowen.
Excerpt:
This bill would exempt from the criminal acts and abatement of nuisance provisions described above collectives, cooperatives, and other business entities that are organized and operated in compliance with the guidelines published by the Attorney General [in August, 2008], and the officers, members, and employees of those collectives,cooperatives, and other business entities. The bill would also exempt those entities and persons from criminal prosecution or punishment solely on the basis of the fact that they receive compensation for actual expenses incurred in carrying out activities that are in compliance with those guidelines.
California NORML strongly supports SB 1182, as it would substantially eliminate confusion over the legality of dispensaries. Cal NORML also supports a more comprehensive medical marijuana regulation measure, AB 2312, sponsored by Assemblyman Tom Ammiano.