The U.S. Justice Department sent out letters to state lawmakers warning that those who run large-scale marijuana operations could be penalized by the federal government, even if they are in compliance with state laws. The letters also said state employees could be subject to prosecution for regulating marijuana.
While the letters did not specify how state employees would be punished, they imply that workers who approve or regulate the sale of marijuana are committing a crime, the Associated Press reports. Officials in Washington, California, Colorado Montana and Rhode Island have received the letters.
Federal authorities recently raided grow operations in Montana and targeted at least two dispensaries in Washington.
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