Prospects
that the emotional debate over medical marijuana dispensaries will
bleed into the Los Angeles’ mayoral race increased sharply this week
when an initiative to keep some pot shops open qualified for the ballot.
The
measure was certified as eligible to appear on the ballot late
Wednesday after officials determined that its supporters had collected
the required 41,138 valid signatures. The City Council has until the end
of the month to enact the proposed ordinance, call a special election
or place it before voters in the May 21 election.
A
second initiative that would allow an even larger number of pot shops
is being vetted by city officials and could appear on the same ballot.
The
proposals are putting lawmakers in an awkward
