Medical Marijuana Dispensaries Banned in Parts of LA County

As of the start of the new year, medical marijuana dispensaries will be banned in unincorporated Los Angeles County, according to the Daily Breeze. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted today to approve the ban by 4-1; their "formal adoption of the ordinance barring the outlets was expected, given a 4-1 vote in favor of the ban two weeks ago." A ban has been in the works for several months.

The ban was proposed by Michael Antonovich, who believes having dispensaries in the area will create more crime and pose a safety threat to residents. Currently no permits have been authorized for medical marijuana dispensaries to operate in unincorporated areas, so if there are any such businesses operating right now, they are doing so illegally.

Those objecting to the ban could file suit against the County to block the ban. Ahead of the Board's vote there were protesters outside chanting "safe access now" and carrying signs. Inside the meeting, the ban was passed without comment and "no advocates appeared inside the hearing room" to speak on behalf of dispensaries.