HB485 Summary

• Legalizes possession, use, and cultivation of up to one ounce of cannabis for adults 21 years of age or older, and allows transfer of up to one ounce without payment to another adult.

• Authorizes the Department of Revenue to regulate cannabis establishments including retail stores, cultivation facilities, product manufacturing facilities, and testing facilities through licensing and rules adopted by October 1, 2014.

• Restricts cannabis sales to licensed retail cannabis stores only; prohibits open or public consumption and consumption in a manner that endangers others.

• Establishes a sales tax on cannabis sales at a rate not to exceed the maximum tax rate on alcoholic beverages, with revenue directed to municipal police departments to combat illegal drug trafficking and production.

• Preserves employer and property owner rights to restrict cannabis use in workplaces and on their properties, and maintains existing laws prohibiting driving under the influence of cannabis.