Rep. Jared Polis, Colorado Democrat, said Tuesday that the federal government needs to ensure states that legalized medicinal or recreational marijuana have laws to prevent driving while high.
“That’s one of the biggest dangers we face with legalized sale of marijuana,” he said on MSNBC. “Colorado just passed those laws, other states don’t have them.”
He introduced legislation in the House that would mimic how the federal government enforces drunk driving laws by withholding federal highway funds from states that don’t have laws on the books.
He also said the $3.5 million in reported taxes on marijuana in Colorado is underestimated when you look at the broader effect pot sales have on the economy.
“People working in the industry with jobs, they pay income tax, that’s not included,” he said. “What about going out and spending the money for the people who own the dispensaries?”
Mr. Polis recently made news for sporting a bow tie and lavender shirt on the House floor in what some called a fashion faux pas, prompting GQ to offer him a makeover.
“You’re still looking at me pre-makeover,” he said. “They offered it and we’re going to do it and see what comes of it. But I told them they can’t take away my individuality.”
• Jacqueline Klimas can be reached at jklimas@washingtontimes.com.
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