Vancouver begins crackdown on unlicensed medical marijuana businesses
VANCOUVER — The City of Vancouver has begun cracking down on unlicensed medical marijuana shops, but owners say they’re still committed to keeping their doors open.
Prominent pot activist Jodie Emery said at least two dispensaries were issued $250 fines Saturday, the first day inspectors enforced regulations that the city put into place last year.
“But the two places I’ve spoken with are open for business. They’re not going to deny accessibility to their patients,” Emery said.
The rules were developed when medical marijuana businesses began growing across Vancouver, but the city refused to grant permits to 140 dispensaries that didn’t comply with rules such as being too close to schools.