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LA considers shutting off water and power for unlicensed pot shops
A man walks past a medicinal marijuana dispensary in Los Angeles,CA on November 2, 2010.
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MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images
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LA considers shutting off water and power for unlicensed pot shops
Since recreational pot became legal at the beginning of the year, Los Angeles has charged hundreds of people in connection with 105 unlicensed cannabis businesses in the city. But that hasn't stopped other illegal pot shops from continuing to operate in broad daylight, undercutting the legal shops that pay taxes and follow strict regulations.
Now, two city council members are considering cracking down on unlicensed pot businesses by cutting off their water and power. If their motion is passed, city staff would have a month to report back on the feasibility of simply turning off utilities for pot shops that aren't playing by the city's rules.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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