Senate advances Colorado marijuana welfare measure
A bill to clarify that public benefit cards can’t be used at marijuana dispensary ATMs cleared its first hurdle in the Colorado Senate.
A Senate committee advanced the proposal Tuesday on a 3-2 vote with Democrats in opposition. They’re concerned the bill could adversely impact legitimate use of the public benefit cards.
The bill would add marijuana businesses and strip clubs to the list of Colorado businesses where electronic benefits cards can’t be used to withdraw cash. The cards, known as EBTs, already can’t be used at liquor stores, casinos and gun shops.
Many dispensary ATMs are already set up to decline EBT cards. But lawmakers say additional clarity is needed to avoid possible federal intervention if there’s evidence of misuse.
The full Senate will now consider the proposal.
