Plans for Warm Springs Tribes cannabis dispensary stalled by low voter turnout

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs recently faced a setback in their efforts to establish a retail cannabis dispensary and legalize recreational marijuana use on their reservation. In a referendum held on June 5, 2024, only 866 of the 3,673 eligible voters participated, failing to meet the one-third requirement for the election to be valid. This outcome contrasts sharply with the overwhelming support shown by tribal members in 2015 when they approved the establishment of a cannabis farm. The Warm Springs tribal government had anticipated that a dispensary could generate approximately $1. 2 million in annual revenue and create jobs for local residents.

Despite the setback, unofficial results indicate that more voters favored legalization than opposed it, though the official tally is pending certification by the tribal council. The failure to legalize cannabis means that possession and use remain illegal on the reservation, stalling economic opportunities and community benefits. As sovereign nations, tribes have the authority to set their own cannabis regulations, but they must navigate the complexities of state and federal laws. The Warm Springs Economic Development Corporation, which oversees the cannabis farm, remains hopeful for future initiatives to support economic growth in the community.