Vote YES for Responsible Marijuana Regulation in Colorado Springs!

The Problem

Current restrictions only allow medical cannabis sales, limiting access and economic benefits for the community. Consequently, many businesses are forced to close, leaving medical clients with fewer dispensaries to visit. This not only diminishes local economic activity but also restricts patient access to necessary treatments.

The Solution

Proposed changes would allow existing medical marijuana dispensaries to also sell recreational cannabis, increasing access and convenience for local residents. These modifications are expected to boost the economy, attracting additional traffic to Colorado Springs and enhancing the overall economic landscape of the area.

Key Benefits

Millions in Tax Revenue: Allowing recreational sales is projected to generate $10-15 million annually in extra funds. This significant revenue boost will support public safety programs, mental health services, and PTSD treatment for veterans, enhancing community resources and well-being.

Responsible and Regulated Sales: Maintaining current limits on the number of dispensaries ensures controlled growth and safety.

Boost to Local Economy: Increased spending within local businesses, retaining millions of dollars in the local economy.

Job Creation: Opening recreational dispensaries will invigorate the job market, providing opportunities for new vacancies and employment, with potential for career advancement.

Strategic Location Benefit: By prohibiting any retail/recreational marijuana business within 1,000 feet of a public or private daycare, preschool, or K-12 school, this ensures businesses are strategically located to respect community standards and prioritize safety.

Myths & Facts

What changes does the ballot include? It allows existing licensees to apply for dual licenses to sell both medical and recreational cannabis.

How is safety ensured in these regulations? Strict compliance with distance regulations from schools and age restrictions.

The proposed amendments to the ordinances of the City of Colorado Springs include:

Authorization for Existing Medical Licensees: Only existing medical marijuana licensees may apply to become licensed as retail/recreational marijuana businesses, subject to all applicable taxes, including the existing 5% sales tax on retail/recreational marijuana. This revenue will support public safety programs, mental health services, and PTSD treatment programs for veterans.

Limit on Licenses: The number of retail/recreational marijuana licenses in Colorado Springs will be limited so that the total does not exceed the number of existing medical marijuana licenses as of November 5, 2024.

Codification of Violations and Penalties: This amendment will solidify violations and penalties related to retail/recreational marijuana in the Colorado Springs City Code. These regulations include:

- Prohibiting any retail/recreational marijuana business within 1,000 feet of a public or private daycare, preschool, or K-12 school.

- Prohibiting the sale or transfer of retail/recreational marijuana to any person under the age of 21.

- Prohibiting the sale or transfer of retail/recreational marijuana acquired in another political subdivision to a person under 21.

- Prohibiting the possession of retail/recreational marijuana by any person at any public or private school, daycare, or preschool.

Support Responsible Regulation

Get ready to vote YES this November – Your vote counts towards a safer and more vibrant community!

Learn more about the Responsible Rec Initiative, donate or volunteer!