The regulatory framework governing recreational marijuana in Colorado is at the top of the docket, and lawmakers have to get this done as per the language of Amendment 64, which legalized marijuana. This is a complex undertaking, with little to no guiding lights to follow. The task force charged with the effort has done significant work in a short time and the Legislature is poised to take ground-breaking action on this issue. Say what you will about marijuana use, but from a policy perspective, it is unusual to watch rules being drawn on such a blank canvas. This legislative session will be landmark for that alone.

Lawmakers have earned their exhaustion and deserve high fives for their sprint through a busy session. Regardless of observers’ political affiliation, there has been admirable work done on all sides in Denver this winter and spring — the results of which will not soon fade.