It has been more than a decade since Colorado legalized marijuana for adults, and new polling finds most voters continue to support legalization and recognize the economic benefits of the state’s legal marijuana industry.
A statewide survey of 698 registered Colorado voters was conducted April 8–9 by Public Policy Polling.
It found seven out of 10 (71%) voters think marijuana should be a legal product for adults, similar to alcohol, and fewer than one in four (23%) think it should be illegal. These results appear to be in line with the Colorado Polling Institute’s March 2024 Statewide Poll, which found two out of three voters (67%) see the passage of Amendment 64, which allowed the regulation, sale, and taxing of marijuana, as a good thing.
The April PPP survey also found most voters (56%) believe Colorado’s regulated marijuana industry has had a positive impact on the state economy. Specifically:
- Five out of eight (63%) think the tax revenue generated by marijuana sales has been important for the state. Earlier this month, the Colorado Department of Revenue reported it has collected more than $2.68 billion in marijuana tax and fee revenue since legal adult sales began in January 2014.
- One in five Colorado voters (21%) said they have friends, family members, or acquaintances who work either directly for a marijuana business or for a non-marijuana business that provides products or services that are used by marijuana businesses. Colorado has nearly 23,400 full-time equivalent cannabis jobs, according to an annual jobs report released this month by Colorado-based marijuana staffing company Vangst.
The PPP survey also asked voters for their opinions on the laws and policies regulating marijuana sales and production, finding 70% think they should be no stricter than those regulating alcohol. The Colorado Legislature is currently considering a bill (SB24-76) aimed at streamlining marijuana regulations in the state.
Statement from Chuck Smith, president of the board of directors for Colorado Leads:
“Support for legalization in Colorado has grown significantly since voters made the decision to end prohibition and start regulating marijuana for adult use. We now have more than a decade of experience that shows legalizing and regulating marijuana works. Colorado’s experience has also proven that many legalization opponents’ fears were unfounded. It should come as little surprise that there is now far less opposition to legalization.
“The past couple years have been challenging for the regulated cannabis industry, so it is heartening to see most voters recognize its significant economic contribution to Colorado. The state lost several thousand cannabis jobs since last year, but it is still creating countless opportunities for Colorado workers and businesses. Marijuana tax revenue has far exceeded original expectations, and to date it has generated more than $2.6 billion for everything from school construction projects to mental health services.
“Colorado has been a leader on cannabis policy for over a decade. More than ever before, Coloradans want marijuana to be regulated like alcohol. As public attitudes continue to evolve, it is critical that our laws and policies evolve, as well, so our state can remain at the forefront of this emerging global industry.”
News
Colorado Leads Statement on Withdrawal of SB25-076
/in Uncategorized /by AdminColorado Leads released the following statement in response to SB24-076 sponsors’ announcement that they are indefinitely postponing the bill:
UPDATE: A Unified Voice for the Cannabis Industry
/in Uncategorized /by AdminWe have an important update regarding the previously announced plan to “merge” Colorado Leads with the Marijuana Industry Group (MIG).
On Friday afternoon, leaders of MIG announced they have decided to wind down MIG and cease operations. As a result, we will not be moving forward with the plan to combine the two organizations. While this development was unexpected, it has reinforced Colorado Leads’ commitment to advancing the business of cannabis in Colorado with strong, responsible leadership and a unified voice for our industry.
We remain confident in the resilience and strength of our industry and look forward to continuing to work with you to build a sustainable, thriving future. Together, we will ensure that the cannabis industry remains a vital part of Colorado’s economy and community.
Thank you for your continued support. If you have any questions or would like more information about our plans moving forward, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Big News: A Unified Voice for Colorado’s Cannabis Industry
/in Uncategorized /by AdminWe are thrilled to announce a major milestone for our organization and our state’s cannabis industry. After six months of thoughtful discussions and careful planning, the boards of directors for Colorado Leads and the Marijuana Industry Group (MIG) have voted unanimously to merge our organizations and move forward together as a powerful, unified voice for Colorado’s cannabis industry.
The new organization will be called Colorado Leads: The Marijuana Industry Group, reflecting our shared commitment to lead and advocate for the entire Colorado cannabis sector and advance the business of cannabis in Colorado. This merger represents a pivotal moment as we prepare to navigate the critical 2025 legislative session and beyond.
We are delighted to share that the leadership structure of our combined organization will include members from both legacy organizations, ensuring diverse perspectives and continuity in our advocacy efforts. Current MIG Board Member Bruce Nassau will serve as Chair of the new Board of Directors, and current Colorado Leads Board President Chuck Smith will take on the role of CEO. Truman Bradley, the current Executive Director of MIG, will serve as Chief of Staff and will oversee the transition and integration of the merger. Core team members from both organizations, including our trusted lobbyists from both organizations as well as Mason Tvert and the rest of the Strategies 64 team will remain onboard to provide uninterrupted service and continue to support all of our combined members.
To celebrate this new chapter, we are planning our holiday party in January to welcome the new year and mark the beginning of our journey as a united organization. Stay tuned for more details!
We are excited about the opportunities this merger brings to strengthen our advocacy, enhance our member services, and solidify Colorado’s cannabis industry as a national leader. Thank you for being a vital part of this community—your support is key to our continued success.
We will be in touch with more information in coming weeks, as well as releasing a more formal press announcement. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or feedback.
Here’s to a bright and unified future for Colorado’s cannabis industry!
New Member Spotlight: Konopé Compliance
/in Uncategorized /by AdminWe are excited to welcome Konopé Compliance as the latest member of Colorado Leads!
Colorado Leads member companies include a wide range of licensed cannabis operators and ancillary businesses, and we encourage any organization or individual who shares our vision and mission to consider joining. Visit the Membership section to learn more.
Colorado Leads Submits Public Comment in Support of Federal Rescheduling
/in Businesses, Colorado, Federal, Science, Tax, Uncategorized /by AdminColorado Leads submitted a public comment in support of the Department of Justice’s proposed rule to transfer marijuana from schedule I to schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act.
As the leading marijuana business association in the nation’s longest- running state-regulated marijuana market, we are uniquely positioned to help inform DOJ’s analysis. We also felt it was imperative that we participate in the rescheduling process since it will directly and substantially impact our businesses, our industry as a whole, and our state and local communities.
Our comment begins by explaining how Colorado’s experience and public policies support HHS’s conclusions that:
DOJ specifically solicited comments on the economic impact of the proposed rule, recognizing it may significantly affect a substantial number of small entities, including state-regulated marijuana businesses that would no longer be subject to section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code. It could also impact entities that engage in marijuana research, which may be subject to different protocols set by the DEA.
Colorado Leads surveyed its membership regarding the impact they expect it could have on their businesses, and we offered some of the insights that were shared, along with our analysis of the impact rescheduling could have on our industry, state, and local communities. We also reached out to leaders of Colorado’s marijuana research community to get their thoughts.
Read Colorado Leads’ full public comment.
Rate of Past-30-day Marijuana Use Continues to Decline Among Colorado High School Students, Remains Lower Than National Average
/in Colorado, Uncategorized, Youth /by AdminThe rate of current marijuana use among Colorado teens continues to decline since the state legalized cannabis for adults, and it remains lower than the national average, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s biannual Healthy Kids Colorado Survey.
Results from the most recent survey, which was conducted in 2023, are now available via the HKCS Interactive Dashboard. It found 12.8% of high school students in Colorado reported using cannabis in the past 30 days, down from 13.3% in 2021. This represents a nearly 42% decrease since 2011 (22%), the year preceding Colorado voters’ approval of Amendment 64, which legalized cannabis for adults 21 and older. Nationwide, 16% of high school students report using cannabis in the past 30 days, according to the latest results of the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, which are compiled by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.
The 2023 HKCS found just over 40% of Colorado high school students reported it would be “sort of easy or very easy to get marijuana if they wanted,” which is 26% lower than in 2013 (54.9%), the year preceding the commencement of legal adult cannabis sales in the state. The survey also found a record high 70.2% of high school students think it would be wrong for someone their age to use marijuana, up from about 60% in 2011 and 2013.
Statement from Chuck Smith, president of the board of directors for Colorado Leads:
“We are extremely pleased to see the rate of current cannabis use among Colorado high school students continues to decline and remains lower than the national average. Significantly fewer high school students report cannabis is easy to get today compared to the years preceding legal adult sales, which suggests our system is working as intended with regard to preventing youth access. Colorado continues to be proof that regulating cannabis works.
While these latest figures are promising, we recognize we must remain vigilant and continue to work with regulators and other stakeholders to maintain this promising trend. Colorado’s legal cannabis industry is committed to preventing youth access, which is reflected in its exceptionally high compliance rates for checking IDs and refusing sales to minors.”
About Colorado Leads
Colorado Leads is an alliance of cannabis business leaders created to educate the public and policymakers about the importance of a vibrant safe and sensibly regulated cannabis industry and its economic contributions. It comprises licensed operators and ancillary businesses that recognize a sustainable cannabis business climate and responsible cannabis industry are critical to the state’s economy and the wellbeing of local communities. For more information, visit https://coleads.org.
New Member Spotlight: ACW Supply
/in Uncategorized /by AdminWe are excited to welcome ACW Supply as the latest member of Colorado Leads!
Colorado Leads member companies include a wide range of licensed cannabis operators and ancillary businesses, and we encourage any organization or individual who shares our vision and mission to consider joining. Visit the Membership section to learn more.
Colorado Legislature Gives Final Approval to Bill Aimed at Streamlining Marijuana Regulations
/in Colorado, Legislation, Politics, Uncategorized /by AdminThe Colorado General Assembly gave final approval Wednesday to a bipartisan bill aimed at streamlining the state’s marijuana regulations. It is now headed to Gov. Jared Polis for his signature.
SB24-76 was sponsored by Sens. Kevin Van Winkle (R) and Julie Gonzales (D) in the Senate and Rep. William Lindstedt (D) in the House.
In summary, the legislation:
The bill also includes a couple provisions related to the distribution and display of educational resources.
Statement from Chuck Smith, president of the board of directors for Colorado Leads, which supported SB24-76:
“We applaud state lawmakers for taking action to streamline marijuana regulations. As the first state to legalize and regulate cannabis, Colorado established a number of rules that were perceived as necessary then, but which we now know are unnecessary and overly burdensome. This legislation is an important step toward a more sensible and evidence-based system that not only protects public safety, but also allows for economic growth and opportunities.
The regulated cannabis industry has created tens of thousands of jobs and generated billions of dollars in tax revenue for Colorado. The economic benefits associated with legal marijuana have recently slowed due to several challenges, many of which are rooted in the laws and regulations that govern it. We appreciate Colorado lawmakers and regulators making it a priority to start chipping away at some of our state’s more arbitrary and problematic policies. There is still more work to be done, and we look forward to continuing this conversation with policymakers, the MED, and other stakeholders.”
About Colorado Leads
Colorado Leads is an alliance of cannabis business leaders created to educate the public and policymakers about the importance of a vibrant safe and sensibly regulated cannabis industry and its economic contributions. It comprises licensed operators and ancillary businesses that recognize a sustainable cannabis business climate and responsible cannabis industry are critical to the state’s economy and the wellbeing of local communities. For more information, visit https://coleads.org.
In Historic Move, DEA Will Reclassify Marijuana From Schedule I to Schedule III
/in Federal /by AdminNews broke today that the DEA will move to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. Colorado Leads has already responded to several media inquiries, and you can hear a representative of the organization discuss the news live on the state’s leading talk radio station, KOA 850 AM, tomorrow (May 1) at 6:49 a.m. MT.
Leads also released the following statement:
“This is a truly historic development in federal cannabis policy that will have significant impacts on the legal marijuana industry in Colorado and throughout the nation. This is by no means the end of the line for federal reform, and we will continue to support efforts to treat cannabis more like alcohol, which is in line with the views of most Colorado voters.
“Rescheduling is a major step in the right direction, and its significance cannot be overstated. Perhaps most notably, reclassification under Schedule III will address the 280E tax issue that has unfairly forced state-legal cannabis businesses to pay a far higher effective tax rate than other legal businesses. Allowing marijuana businesses to start deducting ordinary business expenses will allow Colorado companies to retain more revenue, employ more workers, and further invest in their surrounding communities.”
The DEA’s proposal must be reviewed by the White House Office of Management and Budget, and it will then undergo a public comment period prior to final implementation. The experts tell us these periods are typically 30-60 days, but can be 90 days if DEA determines more time is needed.
New Polling Finds State Voters Are Pleased With Legalization and the Economic Impact of the Legal Marijuana Industry
/in Uncategorized /by AdminIt has been more than a decade since Colorado legalized marijuana for adults, and new polling finds most voters continue to support legalization and recognize the economic benefits of the state’s legal marijuana industry.
A statewide survey of 698 registered Colorado voters was conducted April 8–9 by Public Policy Polling.
It found seven out of 10 (71%) voters think marijuana should be a legal product for adults, similar to alcohol, and fewer than one in four (23%) think it should be illegal. These results appear to be in line with the Colorado Polling Institute’s March 2024 Statewide Poll, which found two out of three voters (67%) see the passage of Amendment 64, which allowed the regulation, sale, and taxing of marijuana, as a good thing.
The April PPP survey also found most voters (56%) believe Colorado’s regulated marijuana industry has had a positive impact on the state economy. Specifically:
The PPP survey also asked voters for their opinions on the laws and policies regulating marijuana sales and production, finding 70% think they should be no stricter than those regulating alcohol. The Colorado Legislature is currently considering a bill (SB24-76) aimed at streamlining marijuana regulations in the state.
Statement from Chuck Smith, president of the board of directors for Colorado Leads:
“Support for legalization in Colorado has grown significantly since voters made the decision to end prohibition and start regulating marijuana for adult use. We now have more than a decade of experience that shows legalizing and regulating marijuana works. Colorado’s experience has also proven that many legalization opponents’ fears were unfounded. It should come as little surprise that there is now far less opposition to legalization.
“The past couple years have been challenging for the regulated cannabis industry, so it is heartening to see most voters recognize its significant economic contribution to Colorado. The state lost several thousand cannabis jobs since last year, but it is still creating countless opportunities for Colorado workers and businesses. Marijuana tax revenue has far exceeded original expectations, and to date it has generated more than $2.6 billion for everything from school construction projects to mental health services.
“Colorado has been a leader on cannabis policy for over a decade. More than ever before, Coloradans want marijuana to be regulated like alcohol. As public attitudes continue to evolve, it is critical that our laws and policies evolve, as well, so our state can remain at the forefront of this emerging global industry.”