Resolution #2011-8 Medical Marijuana

In 2004, Montana voters approved an initiative to allow the use of marijuana as a treatment option for chronic medical conditions.  The federal government subsequently decided not to enforce laws prohibiting the sale and use of the drug in states with medical marijuana laws.  The use of medical marijuana expanded dramatically.  Close to 25,000 people have obtained cards allowing them to use marijuana, and cities have been forced to deal with the public health and safety consequences through zoning, business licensing and other municipal powers.  

The 2011 Legislature will consider numerous measures to regulate medical marijuana. The effect of these bills could range from minor modifications to an outright repeal of the law.  Cities and towns recognize the need for stricter control of the production, sale and use of medical marijuana through state and local authority, but also understand the humanitarian intent of the 2004 initiative. 

Be it resolved that the League of Cities and Towns will support legislation to restrict the use of marijuana for all but legitimate medicinal purposes and protect local government authority to regulate the production, sale and use of the drug through zoning, licensing and other powers.