BURLINGTON, Vt. -
Vermonters might soon be able to buy medical marijuana in as little as six months.
Plans are moving forward to open two dispensaries in the state; one in Waterbury and another in Burlington.
The State of Vermont and non-profits are behind this effort to set up the system for sick Vermonters to find relief by using marijuana. But the federal government say it's still against the law.
In an office complex on the Burlington waterfront could be one of the first places in Vermont to buy locally grown medical marijuana.
"The issue is really getting safe access for people," says Shane Lynn, the operator of Champlain Valley Dispensary.
Lynn says he expects 250 people would buy marijuana at the dispensary. They are limited to two-ounces a month.
"Security is an issue. Not only for our customers and patients, but for myself, staff members," says Lynn.
Lynn has security plans but his problems could be bigger than that. Selling marijuana, including for medical reasons, is against federal law.
Just this year in California, the feds have shut down 500 dispensaries.
"Do you have any concerns about starting a business that is effectively against the law?" asked FOX 44/ABC 22.
"Yeah, it's a risk," Lynn responded.
In an email, Vermont's U.S. Attorney Tris Coffin wrote that he wouldn't talk about what, if anything, the feds will do about the Vermont dispensaries. Though Coffin says he has made no promises "that the dispensaries will not be prosecuted."
"That's a concern. That's a risk in doing this. But again, it's something that I believe in," says Lynn.
To buy medical marijuana, you have to visit a doctor, have symptoms on an approved list to be treated with marijuana, and then the state will decide whether to add you to the registry.
Lynn hopes his dispensary opens in early 2013.
