Women Speak Out for Marijuana Safety and Education

Women Leading the Way in Cannabis Safety & Education

Colorado's cannabis industry continues to evolve, and women are at the forefront, taking on roles as budtenders, dispensary owners, entrepreneurs and advocates for responsible consumption. These women are not only shaping the future of cannabis but also driving a crucial conversation about responsible consumption and safety.

For years, CDOT has worked closely with the cannabis industry and consumers to address the issue of cannabis-impaired driving. Now, it's time for women — and the broader community — to speak for themselves.

As trusted sources of information and advice, women have the power to shape attitudes and behaviors surrounding cannabis use. Our new Women. Cars. Cannabis. video series highlights these influential voices, offering insights and advice from women passionate about cannabis, their cars, and keeping Colorado roads safe.

Wanda James

Advocate, business owner and car enthusiast, Wanda James has taken on many roles in Colorado’s cannabis history. Today, she owns Simply Pure dispensary in Denver, and she continues to advocate for industry equity and share her love of cars. From her extensive experience in cannabis entrepreneurship, she knows the importance of never driving high. Get to know more about Wanda’s story and learn about why she chooses to always consume cannabis responsibly.

Mariah Shaw

Mariah Shaw uses her voice to inspire confidence among Colorado’s cannabis users, especially women. She’s been active in the world of cannabis public policy and social work for years, and received a Master's degree in social work from the University of Denver. To her, the risks associated with cannabis use are well known, including risks associated with driving while high. Shaw shares her advice to prevent high driving.

Megan Solano

Megan Solano, the owner of one of Denver’s original dispensaries, CannaBotica, wants to keep her customers, friends, and consumers safe from the dangers of drugged driving. As a lover of her job and business, she knows that drugged driving gives the cannabis community a bad rap and endangers lives. Check out her video to hear what she has to say … and how you can help spread the word.

Liz Zukowski

You’re likely familiar with Native Roots — it’s one of the largest retail cannabis companies in Colorado. Thanks to Liz, the company’s director of public affairs, Native Roots believes in more than selling cannabis — they’ve been a longtime collaborator with CDOT, and have been vocal for years about wanting to keep their customers safe on the road. Liz knows that the majority of cannabis users don’t drive high, but she’ll keep sharing the dangers of impaired driving until that number is zero. Check out what she has to say.

Voices for Safety

Colorado is fortunate to have many thoughtful women leading the way in responsible cannabis consumption and safety. We're proud to partner with these women to help spread the message that driving under the influence of cannabis is unacceptable.

We hope these ladies inspire you. Talk to your friends, family, neighbors and coworkers — your voice can make a difference in helping save lives on Colorado roads. If you consume cannabis, learn about the effects and consequences of driving high. Choose to keep your high harmless and off the road.