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Despite being legal for years, marijuana bars and cafes have been basically nonexistent in Colorado. Why? Because regulations were so cumbersome it simply wasn’t worth the effort. That changed on January 8 when the state Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED) rewrote its rules to allow, among other things, weed hospitality businesses to sell the same amount as dispensaries of most products (like up to an ounce of flower) and axed a requirement for security cameras in consumption areas. “Cannabis hospitality is the next frontier,” says Brian Vicente, founding partner of Vicente LLP , a Denver-based law firm specializing in the marijuana industry, “and it’s been anticipated the state would eventually tackle it.”
But Vicente isn’t convinced the new rules are simply to reduce red tape. With tax revenue from marijuana sales down significantly since the pandemic, Colorado may be trying to bolster its other stash of green. Regardless of the reason for the policy shift, entrepreneurs aren’t waiting around. Here are three spots where you’ll be able to toke in public this year.
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JAD’s Mile High Smoke
Like any good watering hole, this north Denver “cannabar” hosts live music, comedy shows, and ladies’ nights. But unlike your favorite dive, you’ll find actual bud instead of Bud Light. And while JAD’s was the first […]
3 New Denver Cannabis Businesses to Try Thanks to Loosened Marijuana Rules
