[420 Girl]

Editor’s Note: The Daily Record is counting down the Top 10 stories of 2009.

Today, the local debate over legalized medical marijuana is the No. 5 story of the year.

Colorado - Despite opposition from a local anti-drug activist, the Cañon City Planning Commission recommended guidelines and restrictions for medical marijuana dispensaries within city limits in November. The ordinance, which was sent to City Council for further action, allows the businesses in two zone districts in the city, the general commercial and central business commercial districts.

Dispensaries are subject to state and local sales taxes. Council will hold a public hearing before taking action on the planning commission’s recommendation, which includes a host of rules and regulations.

Florence City Council slapped a 90-day moratorium on medical marijuana dispensaries in October and currently is considering an extension of that freeze.

Many local governments in Colorado are confronting the debate, because state voters approved the decriminalization of medical marijuana use in 2000. Until this year, municipalities were reluctant to take on the issue, because federal statute still prohibited its use. However, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder announced in March the Justice Department will not prosecute marijuana dispensaries that are operating legally under state statute in Colorado and 13 other states. Many municipalities have taken on the issue since then.

http://www.420magazine.com/forums/in...marijuana.html