Just thought I’d leave this here:
Traffic fatalities linked to pot are up sharply in Colorado
Federal and state data show that the number of drivers involved in fatal crashes in Colorado who tested positive for marijuana has more than doubled since 2013. A Denver Post analysis of the data and coroner reports provides the most comprehensive look yet into whether roads in the state have become more dangerous since the drug’s legalization.
It shows that Increasingly potent levels of marijuana were found in positive-testing drivers who died in crashes in Front Range counties. The trends coincide with the legalization of recreational marijuana in Colorado.
And I find this….well, I’m thinking that the operative phrase may well be “self-serving”:
However, Colorado transportation and public safety officials say the rising number of pot-related traffic fatalities cannot be definitively linked to legalized marijuana. The industry counters that the data is imprecise and does not definitively link fatal crashes to marijuana use.
As always, follow the money be it profits for dealers or……..taxes for government. Certainly there is Big Money for those in the marketplace. And dig the amount of taxes Government is getting simply for…being there:
State retail marijuana sales tax
- 10% rate from January 1, 2014 – June 30, 2017; 15% rate starting July 1, 2017
- The first report reflecting the 15% rate is August 2017
- 15% state retail marijuana excise tax
So, between 25 and 35% on sales;
- 2014: $76M in taxes and fees
- 2015: $135M in taxes and fees
- 2016: $200M in taxes and fees
- 2017: $95M in taxes and fees through July, 2017
(H/T: KKTV)