Some Washington lawmakers are trying to pass a new medical marijuana law that would legalize nonprofit dispensaries.
Supporters hope it will clear up the uncertainty that followed Gov. Chris Gregoire's partial veto last year of a medical marijuana law.
A hearing is scheduled Wednesday in Olympia on the bill proposed by medical marijuana advocate Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles of Seattle.
The governor's executive policy adviser, Jason McGill,told The Seattle Times Gregoire finds nothing objectionable in the new bill because state employee would not be involved.
The Washington Alternative Medicine Alliance estimates there are about 135 dispensaries now open, half in Seattle.
The Department of Revenue says 15 marijuana-related businesses paid nearly $244,000 in state and local taxes in the first nine months of 2001.
