Tallahassee, Fla. — Florida-based Green Thumb Industries is gearing up for another legal battle, continuing its push to set up marijuana dispensaries next to Circle K convenience stores across the state, despite a recent legal setback. The cannabis company, known as GTI, operates Rise dispensaries in Florida and has indicated plans to pursue an appeal with the 1st District Court of Appeal following a decision that went against them earlier this month.
In a defiant move, GTI filed their notice of appeal last Thursday, challenging the ruling issued by Administrative Law Judge Joshua Pratt on January 7. The judge’s decision upheld objections from state health regulators, led by Florida Office of Medical Marijuana Use Director Christopher Kimball, who had previously refused the company’s requests to open dispensaries in St. Petersburg, Orlando, and Ocala.
Back in October 2022, GTI announced its intention to begin what it termed a “test and learn phase” of this initiative starting January 2023, aiming to establish 10 dispensaries adjacent to various Circle K locations throughout Florida. However, state officials cited non-compliance with Florida state law as a barrier to GTI’s proposed locations without providing explicit objections linked to each location.
At the heart of the dispute is GTI’s claim that Kimball applied “unadopted rules” to thwart their expansion plans. GTI’s legal filings highlighted the approval of similar dispensary setups by other medical marijuana companies near convenience stores or gas stations, questioning the consistency of the review process under Kimball and his predecessors.
Despite Pratt’s ruling, which pointed out that such decisions were made “on a case-by-case basis”, GTI’s legal challenges persist. Notably, the company has another ongoing case at the state Division of Administrative Hearings, centering on a denied application for a dispensary adjacent to a Circle K in Ocala, though this facility was planned as a separate building next to the store.
The juxtaposition of medical marijuana dispensaries alongside popular convenience stores has stirred controversy and significant media attention. Part of the resistance from state health officials may stem from concerns that locating dispensaries near high-traffic retail locations could elevate security risks or crime levels.
As GTI prepares its legal arguments, stakeholders and observers are closely watching the evolving landscape of marijuana legislation and commercial strategies in Florida. This latest appeal might not only shape the operational strategies of GTI but could also influence broader industry practices and regulatory approaches in the state.
This report was generated by a digital content automation tool provided by OpenAI. Please note that the characters, facts, and circumstances described may not be accurate. Any inaccuracies in this article can be addressed by sending a correction request to [email protected]. Further information regarding the appeal and ongoing legal discussions will likely continue to emerge as both parties prepare for further judicial review.