Initiative #85: Penalties for Fentanyl Crimes
Colorado
My vote power
Above average
Election date
November 3, 2026
How do we calculate my vote power?
What goes into the rating for ballot measures: Representation: how much weight one vote carries here compared with a statewide vote — the smaller the district, the more each vote counts. You have more power in ballot measures because you vote directly on the policy.
Representation: Average · 50 out of 100
This district covers a large share of its state, so each vote carries about average weight — like a vote in a statewide race. About 5,862,189 people live here.
Show the representation math
score = 50 + 50 × ln(state population ÷ this district's) ÷ ln(50,000) = 50 + 50 × ln(5,862,189 ÷ 5,862,189) ÷ ln(50,000) = 50, measured against a statewide vote in CO (grades: 66+ high, 55+ above average, 33+ average, otherwise low; a statewide race is the 50 baseline)
Average representation + a direct vote on the policy → My vote power: Above average.
Ballot Measure
Supports: Public Safety and Crime Control
Colorado would raise penalties for crimes involving fentanyl and similar synthetic opioids. Distribution, sale, manufacture, or possession with intent involving any amount would be a level 1 drug felony. Possessing over one gram through four grams would be level 3. One gram or less would be a treatment-mandated level 4 felony, which could be vacated after successful treatment. A qualifying small transfer tied to overdose aid could be a misdemeanor. Changes begin in 2027.
A YES vote means
The higher felony levels, treatment path for small possession, and limited overdose-aid exception would take effect.
A NO vote means
Colorado would keep current penalties, treatment rules, and exceptions for these synthetic-opioid offenses.
Sources: sos.state.co.us2
Source: en.wikipedia.org