The High Times Cannabis Cups are some of the biggest marijuana events in the world. But this year, the Feds are threatening to shut down Cannabis Cup in Nevada, which is set to be held on March 4-5, on tribal land.
A letter was sent to Moapa Paiute Tribe by U.S. Attorney Daniel Bogden reminding the tribe about the federal status of marijuana, according to Reno Gazette-Journal. Attorney Bogden prompted the tribe that transport, use, distribution and possession of marijuana remains illegal federally.
A portion of the letter reads, “I am informed that the tribal council is moving forward with the planned marijuana event referred to as the 2017 High Times Cannabis Cup because it is under the impression that the so-called ‘Cole Memorandum’ and subsequent memoranda from the Department of Justice permit marijuana use, possession and distribution on tribal lands when the state law also permits it. Unfortunately, this is an incorrect interpretation of the Department’s position on this issue.”
Bogden also says in the letter that, “Nothing in the Guidance Memorandum or the Cole Memorandum alters the authority or jurisdiction of the United States to enforce federal law in Indian Country or elsewhere.”
The Moapa Paiute Tribe is working with the Nevada U.S. Attorney’s Office in hopes of resolving the issue before the event. The tribe is not commenting on the situation just yet. Federal interference with the event would show the true position of the White House on marijuana. It would also signal that a federal crackdown is coming.
Tribal Chairman Darren Daboda said, “To us, we’re looking at it as utilizing our sovereignty. As long as (marijuana) is not visible, we’re told it will be OK.”
Regarding the promotion of the event, Daboda said, “The tribe is promoting it as a vendors’ crafts, food and concert event. We’re not promoting the distributor or selling (marijuana).” The location is secure, with fencing and ample staff to ensure the safety of attendees.
Senator Segerblom said, “This is the kind of event that we’d like to see in Nevada. This could be a huge boost for the tourism industry.”
The Tribe isn’t sure if marijuana will actually be on-premises at the Cannabis Cup this year, due to the recent letter from U.S. Attorney Bogden.