A contentious bipartisan measure aimed at addressing the high potency of cannabis in Colorado was withdrawn by its sponsors during a committee hearing. The measure faced immediate backlash, particularly over proposed regulations on specific edibles and age restrictions.
Before the first reading, Senator Judy Amabile indicated she planned to revise the measure significantly. However, when the hearing took place, she instead requested the panel to reject it. The bill had already stirred debate, prompting its sponsors to promise changes before the official discussion even began.
Currently, Colorado law limits THC levels in edibles to 10 milligrams per serving. The bill sought to extend that restriction to vaping and smoking cannabis products. Additionally, it proposed a new labeling scheme to help provide users with a deeper understanding of potency levels.
One of the most controversial aspects of the measure—initially included but later abandoned—was a cap on the quantity and potency of marijuana that individuals under the age of 25 could purchase. That provision drew the most resistance from the public, particularly in online discussions.
Lawmakers justified the age-related restriction by citing concerns about brain development, referencing CDC findings that suggest cannabis may have long-term effects on memory, attention, and learning, though further research is needed.
Since cannabis was legalized in Colorado, THC levels in marijuana flower have significantly increased. According to the NIH, between 1990 and 2015, the average THC potency in marijuana flower rose by 212%. The industry has also introduced highly concentrated products like edibles, wax, and vape oils, contributing to growing concerns over potency.
Another provision in the measure sought to prevent holders of natural medicine licenses—such as those handling psilocybin—from manufacturing, transferring, or distributing infused candy items, including chocolates and gummies.
Supporters of the measure argued that such products are more appealing to children. However, psilocybin therapy advocates countered that the restriction was unnecessary since retail sales of the substance are not allowed in Colorado, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
Senators Amabile and Byron Pelton introduced the measure after schools and parents raised concerns about the impact of highly potent cannabis on young people. Amabile also cited personal experience, explaining that her child developed schizoaffective disorder and psychosis after early and consistent cannabis use.
Jon Spadafora, CEO and founder of Flower Union Brands, a marijuana edibles company, argued that measures like these contribute to negative stereotypes about cannabis. He also warned that limiting purchases for younger consumers could hurt the industry by cutting off a significant portion of its users.
Acknowledging the backlash, Amabile confirmed that the age restriction would be removed. The measure would still require producers to adopt a new color-coded labeling system to indicate potency, with dispensaries posting signs explaining the meaning of the colors.
The overall marijuana industry, including enterprises like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF), could be glad that efforts to add another layer of complexity to the legal marijuana industry in Colorado has fizzled out in the dust.
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