MISSOULA — A proposed ordinance will be presented at the Missoula City Council meeting on Monday to temporarily halt the issuance of new business licenses for recreational marijuana dispensaries. The aim is to reduce access to marijuana for children in the city.
Currently, there are 51 dispensaries operating in Missoula, with eight more awaiting approval.
Concerns have been raised over the increasing number of young individuals requiring emergency room visits, rehabilitation, and experiencing cannabis-related poisoning, prompting discussions among health department officials and city council members over the past year.
Council member Gwen Jones, who initiated the ordinance, emphasized that the pause in business licenses provides an opportunity for the council to reconsider the locations of dispensaries within the city.
“Research indicates that communities with a higher number of dispensaries tend to have greater youth usage,” stated Jones. “By reducing the visibility of dispensaries in Missoula, we hope to create a healthier environment where youth are less likely to engage in marijuana use.”
The final hearing on the proposed ordinance is scheduled for July 8, 2024.
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