Dispensaries a Possibility in Oregon?

Currently, there are just under 37,000 registered Oregon Medical Marijuana patients. Procurement of the medication for these individuals may come from 2 avenues: grow it for themselves, or be one of four patients under the care of a provider/caregiver--an individual who can grow/obtain the medication on behalf of the patient.

For the majority of individuals who Medical Marijuana most benefits--elderly, disabled, or the enfeebled--growing is not an option, and making legitimate contacts for caregivers is just as difficult. A ballot has just been supported by the Oregon legislature to put the creation of state-regulated dispensaries up for a vote by the people in November. If passed, Oregon would be the 7th state to establish a state-mandated dispensary system.

Proponents of the issue claim a dispensary program will provide a much greater ease of procurement for those unable to grow or have someone they trust cultivate on their behalf. Law enforcement, however, presents the common complaint that the creation of these establishments will increase black market activities as well as increase theft and burglaries.

The proposed ballot has yet to be given a ballot number, however, it is set to be voted on come this November.