SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A Santa Fe man is suing New Mexico health officials to address what he says is a severe medical marijuana shortage.
The Albuquerque Journal reports Mark Springer filed a lawsuit late last week against the state Department of Health.
In the suit, Springer, who owns Medical Marijuana Inc., requests that the department reopen the application period for eligible marijuana growers and permit them to grow more of the plant.
Brian Egolf, Springer's attorney, says his client has met all the requirements for a license but has been rejected with no explanation.
Springer says the rigid application process is causing a hardship for patients.
Department of Health spokesman Kenny Vigil says the agency is not aware of the lawsuit.
Last year, the department granted 23 licenses.