As Goldstien is already making very apparent: The main opponents of legalized recreational pot will be the licensed dispensaries whose monopoly stands to be dismantled.  3-5 years allows for these dispensaries to recoup their investments and make millions before opening the door to legalized recreational. Espero is giving them enough notice.   Until then, the state has a vested interest in making sure that Goldstein, Richard Ha, and all other dispensary awardees are successful. For now, at least.