Marijuana laws spur small businesses in Oakland, elsewhere

[bemildred]

An incremental acceptance of medical marijuana has spurred a cottage industry of business ventures — from iPhone applications to lobbyists — whose expansion shows no sign of slowing despite the recession. Instead, pot is the new growth industry.

The market began to take off in 1996, when California became the first state to approve the sale of marijuana for medicinal purposes. Today, medical marijuana sales in California are estimated at $700 million to $2 billion per year. Profits from "canni-businesses" as a whole are potentially much greater.

"It is a social movement with cash flow," said James Anthony, an activist and attorney who has advised numerous dispensaries, of which there are at least 2,100 nationwide, according to the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws.

The group estimates that Californians alone consume nearly $6 billion of marijuana annually.

http://www.insidebayarea.com/ci_13679216

[byronius]

1. I love my state. Now if we could just boot the Jerk In The Governor's Mansion...

[Le Taz Hot]

2. It's important to note

that other Counties aren't so enlightened and that, as long as they're closing down dispensaries in one place they can do so in others. Currently, San Diego, San Bernardino and Fresno Counties are struggling to open/re-open dispensaries. Please keep in mind that we're all in this together and lend your support.

[zonkers]

3. I live near a dispensary. Patrons that come by look like they have plenty of cash. Nice cars

Well dressed. I also notice that stores and cafes sure seem to pop up around them.

[toadzilla]

4. 2 new hydroponic gardening supply stores just opened near me!

even with no dispensaries in Ventura county, were still benefiting.