Earlier this month, Governor Jared Polis of Colorado made headlines by signing a groundbreaking bill that legalizes online payments for marijuana within the state, despite the ongoing federal prohibition on cannabis. House Bill 1279 (HB 1279), introduced by Representatives William Lindstedt, Said Sharbini, and Robert Rodriguez on March 30, played a pivotal role in this significant legislative development. By repealing language in state law that previously prohibited online sales of cannabis and incorporating new provisions, the bill now permits licensed retail marijuana businesses in Colorado to accept online payments for the purchase of marijuana and related products.
However, it is important to note that the law still upholds certain restrictions. For instance, individuals must be physically present at the licensed premises of the retail marijuana store to take possession of the cannabis products they have purchased online. To ensure compliance with informational requirements, marijuana retailers are obligated to provide online shoppers with digital versions of all warning or educational materials that would typically be posted and provided within their physical premises.