Hidden Costs in Detroit's Marijuana Ordinance May Force a Re-Write by Concerned Citizens

By Friends of George Cushingberry Jr.

The Medical Marijuana Ordinance drafted by the City of Detroit will cost the taxpayers an additional $100,000 to enforce and, is in conflict with provisions of the Federal Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act of 2000 (RLUIPA). The law firm of Lewis and Munday in Detroit Michigan has been awarded this contract for costs by City Council to defend an ordinance that is violation of US Constitutional 1^st Amendment rights regarding the freedom to worship and practice a religious faith without persecution. The RLUIPA protects individuals, houses of worship, and other religious institutions from discrimination in zoning and land marking laws. The enforcement of this ordinance places an unlawful burden on citizens and business owners that are not members of the church or, practitioners of the religion.  This ordinance may be struck down in a Court of Law because of the 1000ft requirement from a Church or Religious institution.  A defendant may prevail before a jury of their peers based on the legal ramifications of federal law violations.

Business Owners are strongly encouraged to develop a citywide licensing plan that will be fair to everyone and, can be voted upon by all of the citizens.  This includes the use of drive through services just like Rite Aid and McDonalds, Burger King, and Walgreens. There are many examples of churches and liquor stores right next to or, across the street from each other.  There are many examples of day care centers near liquor stores, and drug free zones in Detroit. With the proliferation of charter schools, business owners will face a undue burden of having to relocate because of being near a charter school with NO regulations. The business could have been there before the school was established but, that issue does not matter according to the ordinance as written.  Concerned owners should contact the City Council and Mayors Duggan's office regarding this concern. All interested business owners are strongly encouraged to inform their customers about Jury Nullification and VOTING in August and November for candidates who will bring a sensible solution to the people on Marijuana reform.