Good morning, Denver.

Denver7 Chief Investigative Reporter Tony Kovaleski, who earned awards (including local Emmys) for his work holding the powerful accountable, will retire in early 2026.

His 40-year career changed local services and gave a voice to community members.

Federal officials issued an executive order to reschedule marijuana to Schedule III, pending DOJ approval, a move welcomed by Colorado cannabis leaders aligning policy with practice and a booming industry expected to exceed $1 billion in sales while experts warn it may force dispensaries to shift to prescription-only sales.

Gov. Jared Polis has proposed full K-12 funding while lawmakers will face an $850 million budget shortfall and lower enrollment in 2026.

State education updates include a review of Colorado’s first public Christian school and new cellphone policies for classrooms, with changes set to unfold over the coming year.

Denver recorded a record Christmas Eve high of 71 degrees on Wednesday as unseasonable warmth extended into the holidays, and forecasts indicate that Thursday may beat the former record of 69 degrees (set in 2005).

Record holiday roads spurred safety officials to urge Denver drivers to plan ahead before drinking.

Colorado State Patrol warned of a spike in impaired driving crashes on Christmas Eve and said alternatives such as AAA's Tow to Go service + ride-share options offer a safe way home.