Washington's newly elected Governor Jay Inslee met with U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder this Tuesday to discuss Washington's new legislation legalizing marijuana.
Without going into any detail over what Holder actually said, Inslee says he was "encouraged" from what he heard. Inslee says the new legislation will continue forward at this time as the rules, regulations, and taxation are planned out.
Inslee said he "thinks (Holder) is going to give us an opportunity to make our case to allow us to express and give effect to the voters’ will."
Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson was also in the meeting and says he was encouraged as well. He also said that he was prepared to fight the federal government over the legislation, making it clear Holder didn't actually come out and say he would not interfere.
“I made it clear to Attorney General Holder if it comes to it, the Attorney General’s Office in Washington state will be prepared if we need to go to a legal fight.”
Tuesday night the Liquor Control Board, which has been given the responsibility of regulating grow operations and marijuana shops, had the states first forum to ask Washington residents about suggested rules. Larry Ward, the first public speaker at the forum, said that banks will not set up accounts for any marijuana shops or their owners because they fear they might be charged with federal money laundering for drugs.
Ironically the federal government wasn't too concerned when Wachovia and Wells Fargo admitted to laundering $378 billion in Mexican drug cartel money in 2008. Nor did they feel the need to prosecute any members of the HSBC bank, that admitted to laundering money for terrorist groups and drug cartels.
At this time it somewhat appears that smooth sailing lies ahead for Washington marijuana enthusiasts, although no one should hold their breath (unless their smoking). Under Obama, the DEA has raided 4 times as many marijuana dispensaries as Bush, in half the time, despite his campaign promises.
With all the possibilities in the air, only time will tell how Washington's marijuana debacle will play out.
Comments