Legalize and Regulate Recreational Cocaine in Colorado

The Issue

In recent decades, the approach of criminalizing cocaine has been ineffective in achieving its intended goals. The prohibition of recreational cocaine has unintentionally fueled illegal organizations like cartels, led to increased overdoses due to impure products, and resulted in significant wastage of taxpayer dollars. Despite the bans, the consumption of cocaine has not diminished; rather, it has become more perilous for users due to the unregulated market.

It is time for a more intelligent and secure policy: legalize and regulate the use of recreational cocaine. By introducing a regulated supply chain, we would ensure that the cocaine available is clean and unadulterated, ultimately leading to a reduction in overdose deaths. This aligns with harm reduction practices that prioritize the safety and well-being of citizens.

Moreover, implementing heavy taxes on cocaine sales could generate substantial revenue for the government, potentially funding essential community services and infrastructure. This could include rehabilitation programs for substance abuse, improvements in public education, support for universal healthcare, and the development and maintenance of infrastructure.

By setting purchase limits, as is done with cannabis, we can further control the consumption and minimize potential abuse. Such regulations can be designed in a way that balances personal freedom with public health and safety concerns.

Countries that have experimented with similar approaches, such as Portugal's decriminalization of all drugs, have seen positive outcomes, including reductions in drug-related harms and improvements in public health. By legalizing and regulating recreational cocaine, we open the door to more informed use, greater safety, and significant societal benefits.

We call upon policymakers to shift from outdated prohibitionist policies to a regulatory framework that respects individual choices while emphasizing harm reduction and societal gain. Sign this petition to advocate for a rational and humane approach to recreational cocaine use and to encourage our leaders to prioritize public health and safety. Together, let's foster a sensible transformation that acknowledges the realities of modern society while ensuring the well-being of all citizens. Please sign and support this important cause.

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The Issue

In recent decades, the approach of criminalizing cocaine has been ineffective in achieving its intended goals. The prohibition of recreational cocaine has unintentionally fueled illegal organizations like cartels, led to increased overdoses due to impure products, and resulted in significant wastage of taxpayer dollars. Despite the bans, the consumption of cocaine has not diminished; rather, it has become more perilous for users due to the unregulated market.

It is time for a more intelligent and secure policy: legalize and regulate the use of recreational cocaine. By introducing a regulated supply chain, we would ensure that the cocaine available is clean and unadulterated, ultimately leading to a reduction in overdose deaths. This aligns with harm reduction practices that prioritize the safety and well-being of citizens.

Moreover, implementing heavy taxes on cocaine sales could generate substantial revenue for the government, potentially funding essential community services and infrastructure. This could include rehabilitation programs for substance abuse, improvements in public education, support for universal healthcare, and the development and maintenance of infrastructure.

By setting purchase limits, as is done with cannabis, we can further control the consumption and minimize potential abuse. Such regulations can be designed in a way that balances personal freedom with public health and safety concerns.

Countries that have experimented with similar approaches, such as Portugal's decriminalization of all drugs, have seen positive outcomes, including reductions in drug-related harms and improvements in public health. By legalizing and regulating recreational cocaine, we open the door to more informed use, greater safety, and significant societal benefits.

We call upon policymakers to shift from outdated prohibitionist policies to a regulatory framework that respects individual choices while emphasizing harm reduction and societal gain. Sign this petition to advocate for a rational and humane approach to recreational cocaine use and to encourage our leaders to prioritize public health and safety. Together, let's foster a sensible transformation that acknowledges the realities of modern society while ensuring the well-being of all citizens. Please sign and support this important cause.

The Decision Makers

Jared Polis
Colorado Governor
Dianne Primavera
Colorado Lieutenant Governor
Ray Scott
University of Colorado Board of Regents - District 3

Supporter Voices

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Petition created on September 27, 2025