Denver mayor wants to stop public pot smoking

With Denver poised to allow recreational marijuana sales, Mayor Michael Hancock wants to act now to stop public pot smoking.

Under an ordinance he plans to introduce Monday, possessing or smoking marijuana would be illegal in city parks, Denver’s downtown pedestrian mall and recreational facilities. Even the smell of marijuana coming from private property would be barred.

While Hancock likens the proposal to existing alcohol laws, the American Civil Liberties Union says no one risks a year in jail by drinking a beer in their backyard.

Colorado voters passed an amendment last year that allows recreational pot use but it prohibits public consumption. Nevertheless, there has been some public smoking following recent pot giveaways by marijuana advocates. Tens of thousands of people have also attended annual marijuana rallies.