Although California’s Proposition 64, the “Control, Regulate and Tax Adult Use of Marijuana Act” which legalized the sale of recreational marijuana, won by an overwhelming victory four years ago (Yes 7,979,041 = 57.13% vs No 5,987,020 = 42.87%) it was — and still is — opposed by law enforcement in rural areas, some urban localities, and — of course — by the Feds.

Also, there has been great confusion and controversy over how to implement it by licensing retail sales. As is almost always the case, the drafting of the lengthy text involved many compromises with the state’s numerous “stakeholders” — AKA “special interests.”

One of the most troublesome provisions allowed “local options” so supposedly “conservative” rural areas could continue to ban retail locations (but not medical dispensaries or deliveries). The result is that there are parts of the state where marijuana users may have to drive an hour or more to buy cannabis, which is a real burden for many low-income people, and a nuisance for everyone. (And also very bad public policy.)

The other big problem is more complicated. Licensing procedures are always going to be contentious, especially in a state like California where regulation is considered “progressive,” and more regulation is even more progressive. And if businesses object … Well, filthy capitalists! [Read more at LA Weekly]