Marijuana Sales in Colorado Have Exceeded $1 Billion The state was the first in the U.S. to legalize pot back in 2014. Colorado's Department of Revenue says the $1 billion comes from taxes on legal marijuana sales. As well as licensing and fees. This industry is helping grow our economy by creating jobs and generating valuable revenue that is going towards preventing youth consumption, protecting public health and safety and investing in public school construction. There are nearly 3,000 marijuana companies in Colorado and over 40,000 work in the industry. In addition, many Colorado public education programs are funded through taxes on marijuana. Health and human services programs receive assistance through it as well.