It's Easier to Consume Marijuana in Public in Colorado, Starting Today

John Wenzel reports from Colorado, which is planning reform to its marijuana laws—partly by making the public consumption of marijuana easier through land use regulation.

"Starting on Jan. 1, House Bill 1230 will allow two entirely new types of businesses in Colorado: tasting rooms that can sell cannabis flower and cannabis products, and “marijuana hospitality establishments,” which can’t sell cannabis on-site but allow full use of the plant (including on tour buses)," according to Wenzel.

"The new rules, signed into law by Gov. Jared Polis in May, include House Bill 1234, which allows for commercial home delivery of cannabis. But the biggest deal is undoubtedly the consumption rules. Ever since Amendment 64 legalized statewide retail sales, growth and possession of pot in 2014, residents and especially tourists have been forced to find creative ways to consume their weed in the absence of any legal, public option," adds Wenzel.

As noted by Wenzel, despite the statewide scope of the legislation, local governments retain control of the permitting process for marijuana businesses enabled by the new legislation.