Pubdate: Fri, 22 Aug 2014
Source: Seattle Times (WA)
Section: Around the Northwest
Page: B3
Copyright: 2014 The Seattle Times Company
Contact:  http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/409
Note: from Times staff and news services

STATE TURNS DOWN POT-BUS BUSINESS

After a wave of media attention, the state transportation commission
shot down the burgeoning potbus industry in a notice Thursday.

According to Capitol Hill Seattle, Weed Bus operators thought they'd
found a loophole in state law that allows pot smoking in vehicles "if
there is a divider between the driver and the passengers."

"We save you the effort of researching the shops by driving you
straight there, and then you can smoke right on the bus!" advertises
the Weed Bus website.

The Utilities and Transportation Commission disagreed with that idea
and notified charter and excursion operators.

"You may not permit consumption or use of marijuana products on
state-permitted charter and excursion vehicles, nor permit a driver to
be exposed to marijuana smoke or vapor."

What's the logic? "The commission believes activity in your vehicles
is 'in view of the general public,' " said the notice to operators.
"Your vehicles are 'a public place' or a 'place of employment.' "

Under state law, you can't consume pot in public or at
work.

Times staff and news services  
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jo-D