As the 4/20 cannabis holiday approaches, Colorado officials are calling on budtenders—the frontline workers of the cannabis industry—to play a larger role in educating consumers about safe driving and marijuana use. In a new op-ed, state leaders from the Department of Transportation and Marijuana Enforcement Division emphasized the need to prevent impaired driving through direct consumer engagement at dispensaries. With millions of cannabis purchases happening every year, officials see budtenders as trusted voices who can help deliver life-saving messages in real time.
The outreach effort is part of a broader public safety campaign aimed at reducing cannabis-related traffic incidents, which continue to be a concern as legalization matures. The state is not seeking to demonize marijuana use, but rather to empower the industry to be a part of the solution. Officials believe that when budtenders educate customers about the risks of driving under the influence—including the legal consequences and potential harm—it reinforces responsible consumption without compromising access. Clear information about how long to wait before driving, how edibles and concentrates differ from flower, and the impact of tolerance can make a measurable difference in public behavior.
Colorado’s leaders are also encouraging dispensaries to display educational signage, hand out flyers, and train staff to talk about impaired driving in a non-judgmental, informative way. These efforts are meant to align the cannabis industry with other sectors—like alcohol and pharmaceuticals—that have long been involved in public health messaging. By embedding education into everyday cannabis sales, the state hopes to curb preventable accidents while showing that the industry is capable of self-regulation and community care.
In conclusion, Colorado is setting a forward-thinking example by asking the cannabis industry to take an active role in public safety during one of the busiest times of the year. High Science supports efforts that promote honest dialogue, responsibility, and education—because building a smarter cannabis culture means putting safety and awareness first. Let’s keep 4/20 fun, free, and informed.
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