The changing politics of marijuana
Nothing’s ever certain when it comes to politics, a fact that has become increasingly clear in recent weeks both at home and in Washington, D.C.
Here in Colorado Gov. Joh Hickenlooper, long considered supportive of the strictly-regulated marijuana industry, vetoed three industry-backed measures – including one that allowed for increased capital infusions into the state, which is crucial for keeping the industry growing in the state. It was a disappointing veto that not only jeopardizes tens of thousands of jobs but also ignores the professionals that worked tirelessly during his term to build the safest and most respected cannabis industry in the country.
Representatives from the cannabis industry expressed their discontent with the vetoes at a press conference. Three Colorado Leads members are quoted here.
Meanwhile in Washington, D.C., U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colorado, introduced a bill that would protect the cannabis industry from uncertain federal enforcement policies.
“It’s time that we take this industry out of the shadows,” Gardner said.
