For more information about Ed Rosenthal's Michigan seminars call 877-633-5945 or see medibiss.com.

Medical marijuana advocates across the country have had cause for alarm regarding the federal Department of Justice response to medical marijuana facilities. Last week the DoJ sent a memo to U.S. attorneys nationwide that calls for targeting "large-scale, privately operated industrial marijuana cultivation centers." In addition, federal authorities warned the city of Chico, Calif., not to approve a medical marijuana dispensary ordinance. It looks like the Obama administration is changing its perceived policy of going easy on medical marijuana dispensaries. Its October 2009 guidelines said the administration will not seek to arrest medical marijuana users and suppliers as long as they conform to state laws. The latest memo says no patient or other user is protected from federal prosecution by state laws.

Last week state Attorney General Bill Schuette sent his own get-tough message in an opinion saying that under the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act dispensaries are illegal and the only  protections under state law are for patients and caregivers who grow in personal private facilities. Sounds like tough times are coming down the pike for medical marijuana supporters.

Larry Gabriel is a writer, musician and former editor of Metro Times. Send comments to letters@metrotimes.com.

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