Pinoleville Pomo Nation to use marijuana revenue for programs

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Pinoleville Pomo Nation to use marijuana revenue for programs

Posted: Thursday, January 15, 2015

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

The Pinoleville Pomo Nation in California will use revenues from a medicinal marijuana operation for essential programs, the tribe said in a statement to Vice News.

The tribe is the first in Indian Country to enter the legal marijuana industry. Plans call for a $10 million, 2.5-acre indoor grow facility to open in the next month or so.

Revenues will "help pay for the tribe's social programs including as elder care, child care, health and education," the statement read.

The tribe is working with United Cannabis of Colorado and Foxbarry Companies, a company with experience in Indian Country. The statement promised a "secure, low profile" operation that will be regulated by tribal law, in addition to state law.

"Not only will Pinoleville comply with California's medical marijuana laws, but tribal laws will establish an administrative oversight that includes background checks, licensing, and investigation of all employees, managers, and persons associated with the business to ensure that the business is safe and legal," the tribe said.

The Department of Justice issued policy late last year that could allow for legal marijuana in Indian Country.

Get the Story:
Native American Tribe in California Announces Plan to Grow Medical Marijuana (Vice News 1/14)
Ukiah tribe touts benefits of proposed pot farm (The Santa Rosa Press-Democrat 1/15)

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