Colorado cannabis retailers show high compliance with age restrictions

Colorado’s strict adherence to cannabis age restrictions

Recent data from the state government of Colorado has shed light on the commendable compliance of cannabis retailers with the state's minimum age laws. Contrary to concerns, these retailers are not selling cannabis products to underage individuals.

Impressive compliance statistics

The data for 2022 paints a clear picture: underage operatives were denied access to retail cannabis products 99% of the time. This is a significant improvement from 2016, where the compliance rate stood at 94%. Such high levels of adherence to regulations are not just limited to Colorado.

Comparative data from other states

Other states have reported similar findings. A 2022 inspection study conducted in California revealed that marijuana businesses were 100% compliant with the state's ID verification policy. The conclusion drawn was clear: "Underage youth are not obtaining marijuana at licensed recreational outlets."

Another comprehensive study, which was published in the Journal of Studies of Alcohol and Drugs, evaluated retailer compliance in California, Colorado, and New Mexico. The authors of this study concluded that the compliance with laws restricting marijuana sales to individuals aged 21 or older, possessing a valid ID, was exceptionally high. Interestingly, this compliance was potentially even higher than the restrictions placed on alcohol sales.

Further data, sourced from point-of-sale audits of randomly chosen retailers in cities like Denver, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Seattle, also reported near-perfect compliance with the law.

Expert comments on the findings

NORML's Deputy Director, Paul Armentano, commented on these findings, stating, "Regulation works. Illicit marijuana providers don't ask for or check for ID, but licensed businesses most certainly do." He further added, "States’ real-world experience with marijuana legalization affirms that it can be implemented in a manner that offers regulated access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth access and misuse."

Impact on youth cannabis consumption

Data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention earlier this year highlighted a noteworthy trend. The percentage of high school students who reported using cannabis in the past 30 days decreased by almost one-third over the past decade. This decline is significant, especially considering that during this period, 23 states legalized the adult-use marijuana market.