Blog · Mar 15, 2026

Say No to the THC Beverage Bill

At Best Buds, we’ve always been proud to operate within Colorado’s gold-standard regulatory framework. This system ensures that every product on our shelves is tested, tracked, and taxed fairly to support our local communities. However, a new piece of legislation is threatening to undercut the very industry that paved the way for legal cannabis across the country.

The proposed "Lawful THC Beverages" bill aims to create a parallel regulatory pathway for intoxicating hemp-derived THC drinks. While it might sound like more options for consumers, the reality is that this bill creates an unlevel playing field that could seriously harm the regulated marijuana businesses you know and love.

The Problem with the Current Proposal

Colorado Leads, an organization dedicated to protecting the integrity of our industry, has been in discussions with the bill’s sponsors to find a middle ground. Unfortunately, the current draft does the opposite of protecting our market. Here is why we are concerned:

• Regulatory Shortcuts: The bill would allow beverages containing up to 10 mg of THC to be sold in bars, restaurants, and liquor stores. These venues do not face the same rigorous oversight and security requirements that dispensaries do.
• Unfair Competition: These hemp-derived products would be sold at a lower effective tax rate than the products in our regulated market. This isn't just bad for business; it’s a circumvention of the tax structures voters approved to fund Colorado schools and infrastructure.
• Consumer Safety: By bypassing the existing marijuana regulatory system, this bill creates confusion and weakens the safety standards that ensure consumers know exactly what they are putting into their bodies.

Why This Matters to You

Our mission at Best Buds is to provide a safe, transparent, and high-quality experience. When "look-alike" products enter the market through loopholes, it devalues the hard work of operators and employees who follow the rules. It puts the stability of the entire Colorado cannabis industry at risk.

Call to Action: Make Your Voice Heard

Lawmakers need to hear from the people who actually power this industry—operators, employees, and loyal customers. We are asking our community to reach out respectfully to the bill's sponsors and their local representatives to express opposition to the bill as it is currently written.

Who to Contact:

• Sen. Julie Gonzales: julie.gonzales.senate@coleg.gov | 303-866-4862
• Rep. Matthew Martinez: matthew.martinez.house@coleg.gov | 303-866-2916
• Rep. Steven Woodrow: steven.woodrow.house@coleg.gov | 303-866-2967

You can also use this tool to find your specific state senator and representative.

The Message:

Tell them you oppose the draft THC beverage bill because it unfairly undercuts the existing regulated market, creates regulatory confusion, and harms the local businesses that have worked for years to build a safe cannabis environment in Colorado.

Let’s work together to keep Colorado’s cannabis industry strong, fair, and regulated. Thank you for standing with Best Buds!

Filed under: Cannabis news, Marijuana legalization