DIA Says Pot Merchandise Won't Fly -- But You Can Weigh In

There is a difference between cannabis and a t-shirt. But the distinction doesn't really matter much at Denver International Airport, which recently published the details for a public hearing at which it plans to ban the sale of marijuana-themed souvenirs. See also: Marijuana: Antique Row Backers Cool to "Green Mile"...

By Westword Staff

November 12, 2014

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There is a difference between cannabis and a t-shirt. But the distinction doesn't really matter much at Denver International Airport, which recently published the details for a public hearing at which it plans to ban the sale of marijuana-themed souvenirs.

In October, Denver International revealed that it had "started the process to restrict marijuana promotional merchandise...and will be following the public hearing process to amend the airport rule to reflect that."

That news came six weeks after entrepreneur Ann Jordan complained that the airport was preventing her from selling pot-leaf-imprinted flip-flops and boxer shorts to one of the souvenir stores there.

Jordan, a retired teacher who earlier this year started High-ly Legal Colorado, thought it was ironic that the airport allowed Colorado flag shot glasses but not her products.

After Jordan complained, the airport acknowledged that it didn't have a formal policy on pot-related merchandise, but said it would look into creating one.

And now on November 21, the airport will hold a public hearing in order to "propose to adopt new rules regarding the advertisement and sale of Marijuana-related paraphernalia at Denver International Airport."

If it is passed, the rule would read: "It is unlawful to sell, display, or advertise any product bearing the image, likeness, description, or name of Marijuana or Marijuana-themed paraphernalia; and advertise a Marijuana-related business or establishment."

The hearing will begin at 10 a.m. in the City Conference Room, located on the Northwest side of Level 6 in the main terminal at DIA. Want to participate? Here's what the city says you should do: "Submit a written notice of intent to participate addressed to: Greg Hegarty, Business Management Services, 8500 Peña Boulevard, Room 8810, Denver, CO 80249, by mail or delivery, or by fax to 303-342-2171. Such notices must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 18, 2014."

In addition, "a public comment period of 60 minutes will be provided on this proposed rule. Each speaker will be given 3 minutes to speak. Individuals wishing to speak must sign up in the City Conference Room beginning 30 minutes prior to the meetings scheduled start time. Sign-up will end 10 minutes before the meeting begins. The order of speakers is determined by the Director of Business Management Services or his designee."

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