It was announced recently by U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, that ''the Drug Enforcement Agency no longer will raid medical marijuana dispensaries that state laws legalize, as has happened in California.'' This change comes on the heels of President Obama's campaign promise to change government policy on the legal use of marijuana for medical purposes. However, it is still against the law to grow, possess or sell marijuana for recreational use all across the United States.
Carpenter points out that ''those who comply with the law are not our targets. I'm concerned that a certain population of people will attempt to use this new law for corrupt reasons and as a means to grow and sell marijuana in our community.''
The program is not without its problems; Oatten wonders what happens if a qualified grower's place is raided and the individual is not present at the time. ''Do we have to protect the plants and store them somewhere because that person may be a provider?''
Carpenter is concerned about the use of marijuana because often it is the 'gateway drug' to other drugs. He issued this warning to those that try and take advantage of the new policy.
''If you do not legally possess a Medical Marijuana Card as contemplated and mandated by law, and you are growing or possessing marijuana, you will be prosecuted.''
