Colorado Springs Officially Allows Recreational Cannabis Sales

Weed Wins Big in Colorado Springs: Voters in Colorado’s second-largest city just said yes to recreational marijuana, passing Ballot Question 300 with 54.7% approval and killing a proposed sales ban by a slim margin.

Dispensaries Open for Business: Around 90 medical marijuana dispensaries are gearing up to start selling recreational weed, giving locals a new way to light up legally.

Dollars and Sense: With the ban lifted, local officials are already counting the potential windfall. New profits from the city citizens, paired with taking back some of the revenue lost when residents travel to Denver for their cannabis needs are sure to provide a tax revenue spike.

Military City Turns Over a New Leaf: Long known for its military ties and conservative leanings, Colorado Springs is evolving. Just two years ago, a similar measure flopped, and residents had to head to other cities or the black market for their needs. Additionally, experts have previously noted how unfeasible it would be for the military to make a substantial move based on a law that aready exists in other military communities such as San Diego.

Strict Rules Still in Play: Don’t expect dispensaries to pop up on every corner. A zoning law passed before the vote, bans weed shops within a mile of schools, daycares, and treatment facilities. Whether the new law will override these restrictions? That’s still up in the air.

No Recount Drama Here: Mayor Yemi Mobolade, a staunch opponent of legalization, is throwing in the towel. He says there’s no need for a recount, and the results will be officially certified by Thanksgiving.