Editor's Note: This is one of the areas where Washington's recreational marijuana legislation fell short. The medical marijuana dispensaries in operation before Initiative 502 was passed were left out in the cold. Unlike Colorado, which gave first dibs on recreational marijuana licenses to medical marijuana dispensaries, Washington left medical marijuana dispensaries out in the cold: Any marijuana businesses not licensed under I-502 are not technically considered legal. Medical dispensaries are not licensed under I-502, which only covers recreational marijuana sales. Other states moving forth into recreational sales need to ensure that medical marijuana dispensaries are covered and can continue to operate.
Tacoma, Wa. -- All medical marijuana collectives in Tacoma could soon have to shut down. This past week, city leaders addressed plans to send out letters to cease operations as early as January, as they are not licensed under the state Initiative 502. Both business owners and patients are now expressing concerns.
From its name to the signature green cross donned on its signs, it isn't hard to figure out what's inside Ancient Holistic Remedies in Tacoma.
"This is our apothecary," said owner Kimberly Braga. "It's our traditional Eastern apothecary, and we do have cannabis."
Richard and Kimberly Braga opened up their business in 2012 in honor of Kimberly's dad, who died of cancer. His treatment of choice was marijuana. They now serve people like Susan Fairchild, who have turned to cannabis for healing.
