On Wednesday, medical marijuana advocates in Costa Mesa, California submitted about 6,800 signatures to the city clerk’s office. They are hoping to get an initiative on the fall ballot that would allow dispensaries and collectives in the city.

A ban currently is in place citywide. ”It’s imperative to provide safe access for veterans and cancer patients,” said dispensary owner Robert Martinez, who held a press conference to mark the turning in of the names. “I’m super stoked to bring these signatures.” 5,812 valid signatures are needed to get the measure on the ballot.

Tom Duarte’ – the city attorney – did an analysis of the initiative, and it shows that it would lift the city’s ban on marijuana dispensaries and allow nonprofit collectives to set up storefronts. It would also state that dispensaries would be prohibited from being within 1,000 feet of a school, but they would not have to tell the city about their existence.

They would also not need a business license to operate.

Yet another attempt to increase access for medical marijuana patients, continuing the momentum toward more medical freedom for sick people.

- Joe Klare