Do you remember when Colorado voters legalized recreational marijuana in 2012? Part of the law that passed said taxes from marijuana consumption would go toward schools, specifically the construction of schools. This was a win for schools because many school buildings are in need of construction to help preserve and build locations to serve students.
However, because of Colorado’s TABOR Law, which requires citizens to vote on increases in taxes, and excess taxes to be returned to citizen taxpayers in certain instances, much of the money from marijuana sales could never make it to schools, despite votes’ expressed wishes in 2013.
That’s why education organizations, like Great Education Colorado, are asking voters to vote yes on Proposition BB, which authorizes the tax money to go toward schools--the voters intended place--rather than be returned to citizen taxpayers. If you haven’t filled out your ballot yet, it is not too late to vote yes on Prop. BB if you think this money should go toward schools. (It is too late to mail in your ballot however. Drop it at a ballot drop box by 7pm tomorrow and your vote will be counted. Or vote in person from 7am to 7pm tomorrow).
If you are confused why you need to again tell the state you want this money to go toward schools, when voters already made that decision three years ago, you are not alone! Check out this graphic from Great Education Colorado that explains the process.
If you are interested in learning more about how marijuana taxes can help schools, as well as other issues at this intersection, such as the use of medical marijuana by students in schools, attend The Education Policy and Outreach Group and Students for Sensible Drug Policy's Event this Wednesday Nov. 4th from 12-1pm in room 170! We will hear from panelists on these issues, and lunch will be served.
Graphic from Great Education Colorado