Philadelphia will opt out of medical marijuana

The city of Philadelphia will opt out of medical marijuana.

Aldermen voted 3-2 Tuesday night to announce their intention to opt out and hold a public hearing on April 19.

Ward 1 Alderman Justin Clearman and Ward 4 Alderman Shaun Seales voted for medical marijuana.

Ward 2 Alderman Jim Fulton, Ward 3 Alderman James Tatum and Alderman-at-Large James Waltman voted to opt out and to take a wait-and-see approach like the county supervisors.

Fulton said afterward, "I have researched this topic because I understand the importance of this issue. I listened to the Municipal League’s recommendation of a temporary opt out, consulted two doctors and talked with local law enforcement. I decided it was in the best interest of the citizens to wait until regulations are provided by the State Department of Health."

Cities and counties have 90 days or until May 3 to opt out of the new state law or lose the chance forever.

Philadelphia attorney Jeremy Chalmers made an extensive presentation in support of marijuana. 

The Neshoba County Board of Supervisors on Monday voted to opt out of medical marijuana. 

The Legislature approved a medical marijuana measure in January a year after voters approved an initiative that was struck down by the state Supreme Court for procedural reasons.

This final bill allowed local governments more zoning control over where marijuana growing or processing operations would be allowed.

Check for updates or see the April 13 Democrat.