The big news today was that U.S. Attorney General Sessions set ablaze three memos from the Obama-era that basically called a cease-fire between federal law enforcement who still view marijuana as illegal and states that have legalized marijuana, including recreational and medicinal. Colorado was one of the first states to legalize recreational marijuana, which went into effect in 2014.
Don’t worry, midnight tokers. Republican electeds are coming to your rescue. In fact, U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner took to the Senate floor to stand up for Colorado’s state’s rights.
Here are just a few quotes from other Republican electeds rebutting Sessions’ federal government overreach.
Republican Rep. Mike Coffman, CD-6
““The decision that was made to legalize marijuana in Colorado was made by the voters of Colorado and only applies within the boundaries of our state. Colorado had every right to legalize marijuana and I will do everything I can do protect that right against the power of an overreaching federal government.”
Republican Rep. Scott Tipton, CD-3
“The announcement by the Department of Justice is a drastic departure from the Attorney General’s previous commitment to Senator Cory Gardner during the confirmation process that he would uphold the Obama Administration’s treatment of marijuana enforcement and President Trump’s comments that he would leave it to the states. Furthermore it creates even greater confusion and uncertainty by leaving enforcement decisions up to federal prosecutors. The Department of Justice should provide guidance on enforcement of marijuana for states that have voted to legalize it. The people of Colorado voted to legalize marijuana in the state, and I am committed to defending the will of Coloradans.”
Republican Colorado Attorney General Cynthia Coffman
“…I expect, however, that the federal government will continue to focus their enforcement efforts and resources on combatting the gray and black markets and diversion, and not target marijuana businesses who abide by our state’s laws.
“The State of Colorado has worked diligently to implement the will of our citizens and has built a comprehensive regulatory and enforcement system that prioritizes public safety and public health. There is still work to be done, but as a state we have focused on strengthening regulation of recreational marijuana and enforcement of state laws.”
The pot industry employs 34,000 people here in Colorado, so to say that cracking down on pot would be a shock to the system is an understatement. To quote Mr. Hand from Fast Times at Ridgemont High, “What are you people? On dope?”
Hands off our pot industry.