A seminar aimed at helping medical marihuana patients was cancelled after Highland Township threatened the scheduled speaker with a land-use violation.  Rather than subjecting the patrons to potential police action, the owner of the seminar location decided to forego holding the meeting.  This presents an interesting conflict between an individual's right to assemble and speak on private property and a municipality's application of its zoning ordinance.  The Township's decision was based on its moratorium banning facilities or activities related to the growth, sale, or dispensation of marihuana.  More information can be found in the following article.

     Eric VanDussen is working on a documentary showing how different law-enforcement officials, prosecutors, and courts are enforcing the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act (MMMA).  Paramount to the success of the documentary is Mr. VanDussen's ability to videotape court proceedings.  Recently, the Michigan Court of Appeals denied Mr. VanDussen's request to videotape, People v Anderson, a criminal case that is likely to have an impact on the MMMA.  Citing Administrative Order 1989-1, the Court of Appeals did not believe the fair administration of justice required the videotaping.  Mr. VanDussen has asked the Michigan Supreme Court to review the denial.