DENVER - As marijuana advocates in Denver push a proposal to allow the use of cannabis in commercial spaces, Durango businesses seem receptive.
The Campaign for Limited Social Use launched its petition drive Thursday, asking voters in Denver to place a question on the city's November ballot that would offer businesses to allow patrons to use the now-legal substance on commercial grounds.
While Amendment 64 legalized marijuana, local governments have prohibited consumption in commercial spaces, such as at bars and clubs. Cannabis clubs have been shut down.
The issue has caused problems for visitors and Coloradans alike, who simply don't have a place to go. Some find themselves lighting up on sidewalks and in parks.
Under the proposal, businesses that have a license to sell alcohol for on-site consumption - such as a bar or club - would be able to decide whether to allow cannabis consumption on the premises. Businesses without an alcohol license would be allowed to permit use, subject to regulation by the city.
All commercial establishments that allow adults to use marijuana would be required to comply with the Colorado Clean Indoor Air Act. Bars could allow smoking in designated smoking areas outside, as is the case now with tobacco.
For Kirk Komick, owner of the Leland House and Rochester Hotels, his quaint, historic hotel would not be conducive to marijuana use. The entire premises is already smoke-free, and he said he hasn't received many requests.
But Komick said he likes the idea because businesses and visitors should have an option.
Over at Orio's Roadhouse, where the bar already enjoys an exemption from the statewide smoking ban, owner Heidi Orio said she would be open to allowing a marijuana smoking section if Durango headed in a similar direction.
"It comes up all the time; people try to bring it in," Orio said. "If there's designated areas for it, you'll be abiding by the law better ... versus I'm going to do it illegally on the street."