House Bill 1284 has officially passed in the House and is now up for Senate approval. Basically, the Bill gives towns and cities the right to ban dispensaries and creates stronger background checks for dispensary owners. What is most disturbing is the level of white noise and propaganda being spewed from both sides. According to Colorado cannabis advocates, Bill 1284 is unconstitutional as it restricts Amendment 20, which was passed by voters. Opponents to medicinal marijuana in Colorado claim Amendment 20 was a lie and a farce and has been abused to the point where their children are exposed to a medicinal marijuana dispensary on every corner. Both views, of course, can be viewed as obtuse and reactionary. Objectively speaking, the industry boomed in a short amount of time; one should expect a defensive reaction from the public. Likewise, cannabis can have significant benefit beyond the medical trade; tax revenue alone could relieve significant budget strain for cities and the State. Unfortunately, both sides seem content with using propaganda and fear tactics to get their point across. In reality, it comes down to the potential for full blown legality; advocates want it, opponents fear it. Soon enough, initiatives and new amendments (such as initiative 47) will be presented to the voting public, thus ending the debate. This industry is legitimate; it should be allowed to thrive. Hopefully both sides will find common ground and the public will be allowed to make the choice, much like alcohol and tobacco.
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