Longtime SF Pot Club To Shut Down Amid Federal Pressure
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) – The Vapor Room Cooperative, a longtime medical marijuana facility in San Francisco's Lower Haight neighborhood, is closing at the end of July, another victim of the federal crackdown on pot clubs.
The Vapor Room has been operating on Haight Street since 2004 and has been voted best cannabis club in the city.
Now, it's at least the ninth local dispensary succumbing to pressure from the U.S. Attorney's Office, which is threatening the Vapor Room's landlord with federal prosecution, even though the club is properly licensed and legal under California and San Francisco law.
"This is devastating and it's a tragedy. It's a loss for the patients," said Stephanie Tucker, the club's community liaison and part of the San Francisco Medical Cannabis Task Force. "Here at the Vapor Room, they have been providing free alternative health and healing services for this community for years now. And it's just so sad that we're going to have to end."
KCBS' Doug Sovern Reports:
The U.S. Attorney's Office has specifically targeted pot dispensaries that are in the vicinity of community facilities and schools. U.S. Attorney Melinda Haag has said that one of the main concerns she has heard about dispensaries is about their proximity to schools, parks and playgrounds and the danger it possibly poses to children.
Officials with the Vapor Room said they may look for another location but for now, the last day of operation is scheduled for July 31.
Medical marijuana patients and advocates are planning a protest in August.
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