Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Marijuana Goes Mainstream
With the passing of Amendment 64 in November 2012, Colorado made recreational
marijuana legal. But that didn't make it possible. There was a caveat. With marijuana illeg-
al at the federal level, it was unsure how the change would play out. However, in August
2013 the Justice Department decided that it would not challenge state laws on the drug, and
instead pursue serious trafficking.
At the time of writing, this news was so new that recreational bud had yet to hit the
mainstream market. Essentially the amendment means it will be legal for those of 21 years
or older to possess under 1oz (28.35g) or cultivate up to six plants per person for personal
use. It may be consumed only within private residences, not in public. Like alcohol, con-
sumption while driving will be regulated.
For dispensaries, which popped up after Colorado legalized medical marijuana back in
2000, the ruling is sure to be a cash cow. But don't expect bud to be sold alongside beer
coolers. To keep a low profile with minors, dispensaries have nondescript storefronts, usu-
ally away from the prime real estate.
For now, you can stroll the streets of Telluride or Boulder sure of one thing: change is
already in the air.
