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Marijuana Laws in Colorado After Legalization

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Colorado was among the first states to legalize recreational marijuana in 2012 (Amendment 64), but there are still important rules and potential legal issues to be aware of.

Legal possession: Adults 21+ may possess up to 2 ounces of marijuana. You can grow up to 6 plants per person (12 per household), with 3 or fewer being mature at any time.

Still illegal: Public consumption, driving under the influence (5 ng/ml THC blood limit), possession on federal land, and providing marijuana to anyone under 21 remain criminal offenses.

DUI charges: Driving with 5+ ng/ml of THC in your blood creates a permissible inference of impairment. Penalties for a first offense include up to 1 year in jail, $1,000 fine, and 9-month license suspension.

It's also important to note that marijuana remains illegal under federal law. This creates complications for federal employees, gun owners, and those crossing state lines.