As an experienced Colorado Springs
criminal defense lawyer, our Attorney Chris Samuelson is often asked to share his opinion
on changes to local laws. Attorney Samuelson was recently interviewed
by the Colorado Springs Business Journal regarding the six-month moratorium
banning new marijuana dispensaries in the city.
What Will the Moratorium Ban?
This moratorium, which was approved by the Colorado Springs City Council
on Tuesday, November 12, will essentially prevent any new medical marijuana
dispensaries or grow operations from opening their doors over the next
six months. It will also prevent existing medical marijuana dispensaries
and growers (who, for the most part, are fully complying with state and
local laws) from expanding their businesses. Theoretically, local lawmakers
will work to "figure out the marijuana problem" while the moratorium
is in effect.
How Will This Affect the Local Economy?
Attorney Samuelson has referred to the approval of this moratorium as "economic
suicide," and with good reason. While cities like Manitou Springs,
Pueblo, Breckenridge, and Denver are all enjoying a boon of tax revenue
from medical AND recreational marijuana, Colorado Springs is falling behind
the trend.
In the interview for CSBJ, Chris went on to describe the potentially devastating
effects this moratorium could have for local business owners and their
families, referring to many people who have invested "their savings,
their retirements into what is in this state a legal business enterprise."
In other words, law-abiding residents who are trying to run their business
in compliance with the law, could now be forced into bankruptcy while
the city decides what the future holds.
Call (719) 941-1127 For Tough Defense
The highly-regulated medical marijuana industry has thrived in Colorado
for nearly half a decade now, and has poured millions of dollars back
into our state's economy. Yet for some mindboggling reason, local
lawmakers have chosen to ignore the economic benefits and tax boon, and
are instead focused on forcing small business owners to close their doors.
At The Samuelson Firm, our Colorado Springs criminal defense attorney is
dedicated to the protecting the rights of our clients. When you choose
to be represented by our firm, you can expect tireless representation
from a lawyer who is always working with your best interests in mind.
Facing criminal charges? Call our firm today for your
free case evaluation.