Law firm hosts tribes for session on marijuana in Indian Country


An illegal marijuana farm on public land in California. Photo from Addictiontreatment.org

An aptly-named law firm reportedly hosted 10 tribes in New Mexico today for a meeting on marijuana, The Daily Beast reports.

But Blaze America said the tribal attendees wouldn't be publicizing their presence at the session. Still, they hoped to learn more about the emerging marijuana industry that could gain a foothold in Indian Country.

"They have the ability to create this from scratch,” Yaseen Archuletta, the tribal director for the firm, told The Daily Beast. "They are able to get into this industry with complete immunity.”

Marijuana remains illegal under federal law. A Department of Justice policy that was made public in December has sparked interest among tribes, who might be able to grow and sell the drug for medical and commercial purposes.

Marijuana has been decriminalized in New Mexico for medical purposes. Possessing or selling the drug can still lead to jail time and fines, according to the Marijuana Policy Project.

Get the Story:
Ganjapreneurs on the Reservation (The Daily Beast 3/26)

Relevant Documents:
Department of Justice Policy Statement Regarding Marijuana Issues in Indian Country (October 2014)

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