The Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy vetoed the County Council’s ordinance that would delay operation of legal marijuana facilities in Pierce County. Medical dispensaries will be closed and legal, taxable marijuana sales can begin July 1, 2016.

A Statement from Pierce County Council Chair Doug Richardson

“I am in receipt of Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy’s veto of Council Ordinance 2016-35s which requested the Planning Commission to conduct a public hearing considering amendments to prohibit the production, processing, and retail sale of marijuana in Pierce County. There are not five votes on the Council necessary to override her veto.

Ordinance 2015-27s  goes into effect tomorrow, July 1, 2016. We need to ensure that it is implemented to the full extent of the law and illegal dispensaries are closed. The drug enforcement fund established by the Council will be used by law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys to protect public safety.”

[Note from the Editor: Please don’t drive. Hand off your keys to your sober partner or take a taxi if you are impaired. Keep yourself and everyone else safe!]