Medical Pot to be Taxed Three Times, If Washington Law Passes

Washington state lawmakers are considering a bill that would apply a 25 percent tax at each of the growing, distribution and selling levels involved with medical marijuana.

Steve Schechter, owner of a dispensary, told the The Everett Herald that a an ounce of pot currently going for $280 in his shop would go up to $350 if the new law goes into effect. Schechter added that the price hike would price medical cannabis out of the reach of those who need it the most.

There's also no guarantee that the revenue will be put toward any research regarding pot, rather than being absorbed into the larger state budget.

The taxes are being proposed on cannabis flagged for medical use because without it, pot sold in dispensaries would be cheaper than marijuana sold for recreational use. Local and state sales taxes would also be charged.