The legalization of marijuana has been a hot-button topic for a long time now and in Colorado yesterday, something happened that has never happened before....recreational use of marijuana is now legal in that state and pot stores have opened everywhere to a thriving first day of business..The use of marijuana for medicinal purposes has been made legal in some states, but never for just everyday recreational use. While some are very happy about this unprecedented experiment, others are very nervous and worried about the possible ramifications. Parent groups are just flat out outraged and feel like Pandora's Box has just been opened.

It is very strange to see some of the video coming out of Colorado of people walking into pot retail stores and walking out with their marijuana for all to see. You do however, have to be 21 or older, but what does this mean for families?

Adults drinking alcohol in front of their children has been going on forever and for the most part, is considered reasonably acceptable with the exception of alcohol abuse. Are people in Colorado going to be smoking pot in front of their kids now? Under the law, they can, but what about parental moral obligations to their children?

One thing is for sure, the family values debate will now go in a completely different direction in Colorado and any other state that follows suit. Personally, I am very uncomfortable with the idea of people smoking pot out in the open for all to see, especially the young and impressionable, but that's just me.

Alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking are legal and none of us are in a position to judge anyone who chooses to do either, unless of course they are under age. Under the new law, Colorado residents can only purchase an ounce at a time, while non-residents can only purchase up to 1/4 ounce at a time. Some shop owners may even put a purchase cap on customers to preserve the supply.

Only time will tell if this is good or bad. It will be interesting to see how many other states will follow suit and pass similar legalization laws if any.By the way, Colorado expects to generate more than 400 million dollars in sales this year. That should answer any questions about what other states might do. The state of Washington legalized pot in 2012 and pot retailers in that state should be up and running later this year.

 

More From WKDQ-FM