Medical Marijuana Colorado

Due to the vague and cryptic nature of Colorado medical marijuana law, more growers and dispensaries are feeling the backlash from the DEA. Recently, a grower in Highlands Ranch was arrested by federal agents while his entire inventory was confiscated. What is most disturbing about this situation is the grower believed he was in compliance with state law. Regrettably, federal law supersedes state law, thus making the grower of Colorado cannabis a felon in the eyes of the DEA. This could potentially open the doors for more confiscation and firm restriction via federal lawmakers. Unfortunately, Colorado medicinal marijuana laws have been ambiguous at best from the beginning. It is becoming painfully evident that clearly defined laws and guidelines must be in place before more people who believe they are compliant end up in federal prison. Blame lies in all areas of the industry, from vague law to overzealous proprietors. Until firm and acceptable guidelines are in place, similar situations will plague the industry, causing more skepticism and fear among the public and government officials.

In spite of potential and projected business growth, regulation of medicinal marijuana in Colorado is simply a matter if inevitability. What is crucial, however, is how much the regulations hinder perspective growth of the industry. Recently, the City Council passed an ordinance to require licensing for Colorado medical marijuana dispensaries. Although this is a logical step in the progression of Colorado marijuana regulation, the requirements to attain a license could become a major point of contention. Currently, the Colorado medicinal marijuana dispensary owner will be required to pass a background check and pay fees totaling about $5000 (including annual fees). As time goes on, however, restrictions could become tighter and more subjective. For example, the Massey-Romer bill would allow the licensing board to establish a potential owner’s “moral character” and deny a license based on that subjective opinion. Regulations, ordinances, and perspective bills are changing on nearly a daily basis. Once again, it will be up to the public to decide on the fate of Colorado medical marijuana as a myriad of bills will surely be presented to the voting public. While opponents of medicinal marijuana in Colorado push for harsher restriction, advocates and business owners will be challenged to find initiatives that will please the public while still maintaining financial enterprise.