A new state board governing medical marijuana is attempting to close all of Michigan dispensaries.  Members of the Medical Marijuana Licensing Board argue that dispensaries are illegal under current state law and the board wants to see them forced closed by September 15th.The board held a second meeting on Monday where retired Michigan State Police trooper Donald Bailey said he wanted all dispensaries closed immediately although some would be granted licenses to stay open under a law passed last year to regulate the industry.  "If we don't do this today we're going to do it somewhere in the future. Because it needs to be done," said Rick Johnson, who chairs the board.  

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"This is an unprecedented action," Tim Beck, who helped pass the voter initiated medical marijuana legislation, echoed of the state's attempt to close shops.  “This comes across to me as petty, vindictive and authoritarian.”Jason Moon, spokesperson for The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, which houses the Bureau of Medical Marijuana Regulation, said that a major review would be done should this proposal pass, including a review from the Attorney General's office. "The Bureau of Medical Marijuana Regulation will thoroughly review the recommendations and discussion from the board, and consult with the Attorney General's office before any action is taken," Moon said.  The board's next meeting is scheduled for Oct. 12, although they will likely meet sooner to further discuss Bailey’s proposal.

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Medical marijuana board member wants to shut down existing dispensariesState medical marijuana board signals intent to shut down all dispensariesA cop on Michigan's new marijuana board is trying to shut down all of the state's dispensaries