Federal Pot Warning Sent To Colorado Lawmakers
DENVER (AP) - Colorado is the latest state to receive marijuana warnings from the federal government as state lawmakers mull regulating the drug.
The top federal prosecutor in Colorado sent a letter Tuesday to Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper and some lawmakers. The letter says states shouldn't pass bills that appear to authorize the medical marijuana business because the drug is still illegal under federal law.
Other states considering marijuana legislation have faced federal questions. Earlier this month, Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire said she may veto a bill to license marijuana dispensaries after the Justice Department warned it could result in a federal crackdown.
Montana lawmakers passed an outright repeal of medical marijuana in that state after federal raids. The repeal was vetoed, but a bill limiting marijuana dispensaries awaits Democratic Gov. Brian Schweitzer.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
