FLINT TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE WOULD BAN MEDICAL MARIJUANA BUSINESSES

FLINT TOWNSHIP, Michigan -- Flint Township could be close to banning
businesses that profit from the growth or sale of medical marijuana
approved by state law.

The township's planning commission has passed an amendment to the
township's zoning rules which requires all "uses or businesses seeking
approval or permits from the township must comply with federal, state
and local law," according to documents provided to the township's
board of trustees at their meeting Monday.

The township could vote on the amendment as early as their next
regular meeting, which is scheduled for 7 p.m. Oct. 4, said Supervisor
Karyn Miller. The planning commission has recommended the board
approve the amendment.

Michigan voters approved medical marijuana in 2008. The federal
government, however, still considers this use illegal. However the
U.S. Department of Justice has said it will not prosecute medical
marijuana use in states which pass laws on it.

Because of the federal law, any business which sells, distributes or
allows medical marijuana in the township would be in violation of the
amendment.

Tracey Tucker, the township's economic enhancement director, said the
measure wasn't tailored specifically for medical marijuana businesses.
But Miller said the amendment would likely serve as the township's
official stance on medical marijuana businesses.

"We just want to be in compliance with local, state and federal law,"
she said.