Chris Romer's "long, strange trip" is almost over. The state senator who last fall decided to take on the task of shepherding legislation through the Statehouse that defines and regulates this state's booming medical marijuana industry saw House Bill 1284 pass the Senate yesterday, 26-9, with a major bipartisan push.

It's all over but the shouting -- and there will still be plenty of that as the bill goes back to the House, which must approve the numerous amendments made after it left that body. Among them is one that makes the addresses of grow operations confidential. From there, it's on to Governor Bill Ritter's desk -- and, from what we hear, likely a court battle. But Romer won't be along for that part of the ride.

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