(PUEBLO, Colo.) — In modern history, Colorado was the first place in the world to legally sell cannabis for recreational use. It’s been over 10 years since that first sale, and researchers are still working to learn more about the drug and it’s impacts.

The state’s official cannabis research institute, The Institute of Cannabis Research through Colorado State University Pueblo, is currently funding 16 different studies. They’re hoping to answer a wide range of questions like, how can well tell if someone is drinking, smoking, or both? As well as, what are the potential health effects of cannabis vape devices?

“Not all states are investing in research like Colorado is, and I think that investment fills a gap that has been created at the federal level,” said Chad Kinney, who is the Director at the institute.

Since their work first began in 2015, the institute has completed dozens of studies across the entire state.

It’s funded by donations, as well as tax revenue from marijuana sales. To get the best researchers involved, they put out a statewide call for research proposals. They estimate they’re currently working with 14 different research groups across Colorado.

“Some of the projects that are currently underway, are looking at potential applications for treatments for young people with autism, which I think is very interesting. (We’re also) looking at potential applications with traumatic brain injury, another area (is) looking at the accuracy of labels on materials that are available to consumers,” said Kinney.

They say most of their projects are focused on potential therapeutic uses of the drug, as well as it’s health impacts.