Pennsylvania lawmakers introduce bipartisan marijuana legalization bill
by: George Stockburger
Posted: Jun 17, 2024 / 11:31 AM EDT
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – Pennsylvania lawmakers have unveiled a bipartisan bill to legalize adult-use marijuana.
Reps. Aaron Kaufer (R-Luzerne) and Emily Kinkead (D-Allegheny) say the bill prioritizes public safety, consumer protection, social equity, and criminal justice reform.
The lawmakers also say their bill would help create jobs and generate “significant tax revenue” while targeting the illegal marketplace. In March, the Independent Fiscal Office released a report that said legalized marijuana in Pennsylvania has the potential to bring in more than $1 billion in tax revenue over the next five years
“This bill underscores our commitment to responsible regulation of the cannabis industry while addressing the diverse needs of Pennsylvania’s communities,” said Kaufer. “By prioritizing public safety and consumer protection, this legislation will build on the successful regulatory structure of the state’s medical cannabis program, continuing stringent standards for product quality, packaging and labeling to ensure the well-being of all consumers.”
Farmers would also have an opportunity to participate in the legal market.
“It is well past time for the Commonwealth to legalize cannabis for recreational use, address the injustices of the failed War on Drugs, and ensure that Pennsylvanians can benefit from this industry in the same way our neighboring states have,” said Kinkead. “Our bipartisan effort to provide specific language that takes the best practices from other states is the next substantial step in finally getting this done.”
Law makers say the bill would also place a “strong emphasis on social equity and criminal justice reform by creating opportunities for individuals disproportionately impacted by outdated cannabis policies.”
