A variety of new Colorado laws were enacted at the start of this year, ranging from home plant restrictions to a raised minimum wage. Here are several important legal changes that took effect on Jan. 1, 2018.
Retail Marijuana Restrictions
In an attempt to prevent looping (when an individual visits a marijuana dispensary multiple times daily to purchase), a new Colorado law limits marijuana retail sales to a single transaction per day per person. In addition, certain consequences will be put in place for establishments who knowingly sell to someone who has gone over the limit.
Revoked Licenses
Previously, leaving the scene of an accident in Colorado could only result in a revoked license if the fleeing individual was convicted of the accident. The new law, however, will allow authorities to suspend the license of any driver involved in a hit-and-run.
Raised Minimum Wage
Beginning Jan. 1, 2018, minimum wage was raised across Colorado to $10.20 per hour and $7.18 per hour for tipped employees. This is the first step in a series of raises that will reach $12 by 2020.
Sexting
The new law in 2018 lowers the consequences faced by teens for texting sexual images to other minors. The law up until this year charged teens with the sexual exploitation of a child; however, the new law both lowers that charge and doesn’t require the teens to register as sex offenders.
House Plants
A new law expands a previous restriction on the number of homegrown marijuana plants from six per residence to twelve. This law is not consistent across the state, meaning that certain local or city restrictions could change this number.
Medical Procedure Price
This new law requires Colorado healthcare providers to publish price estimates for common procedures. This is to allow patients more freedom in shopping around between health providers for a provider that best meets their needs.
Legal procedures and terms can be confusing; however, you don’t have to face an injury or a Colorado workers’ compensation claim alone. Check out our Legal Library to learn more, or contact The Babcock Law Firm for a free consultation of your injury case to see how we can help.