WASHINGTON: With Washington state overhauling its medical marijuana law, Seattle Mayor Ed Murray says the city is planning to shutter dozens of dispensaries.
Murray on Tuesday announced plans to require a new special business license for marijuana establishments, akin to those required for taxi operators and pawn shops. Under the mayor’s plan the businesses will be required to obtain the licenses by July 2016.
Murray said he hopes the new legislation will prevent pot sales to minors and also prevent abuse of the medical marijuana products.
The Mayor estimates about half of the city’s currently unregulated marijuana establishments could be forced to close, under his new regulations.