Medical marijuana bill: Read the latest version of HB 1284 here

As we reported yesterday afternoon, HB 1284, the medical marijuana regulatory bill, was passed by the Senate on its second reading -- and at least at this writing, it appears to be on the fast track to passage and a trip to Governor Bill Ritter's desk. As for the bill...

By Michael Roberts

May 6, 2010

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As we reported yesterday afternoon, HB 1284, the medical marijuana regulatory bill, was passed by the Senate on its second reading -- and at least at this writing, it appears to be on the fast track to passage and a trip to Governor Bill Ritter's desk.

As for the bill itself, the damn thing seems to be on steroids, not cannabis -- because it keeps getting bigger and bigger. The latest version is now 77 pages long, up five from its immediate predecessor, and even some lawmakers are likely unclear about everything that's in it. In addition, notes Coloradans for Medical Marijuana Regulation's Matt Brown, "the summary section at the beginning is now roughly 176 amendments old, and is very different than the text of the actual bill. If anyone is reading through this for the first time, ignore the first two pages entirely."

See: Now you've only got to plow through 75 pages. To read them, click here.

Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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