Despite the need for new revenue sources, Pennsylvania lawmakers are unlikely to include recreational marijuana in this year’s state budget. However, a bipartisan bill to legalize the drug for adults 21 and over has been introduced in the state Senate. The proposal, sponsored by Senators Dan Laughlin (R-Erie) and Sharif Street (D-Philadelphia), would allow existing medical marijuana dispensaries to convert to recreational sales after paying a $100,000 fee.
The bill has faced criticism from some advocates who argue that the fee is too low and would give existing companies an unfair advantage. Chris Goldstein, a Pennsylvania-based advocate for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, expects lawmakers to increase the fee to a higher amount, potentially in the millions.
The proposal would also create a state control board to regulate both recreational and medical cannabis sales and issue licenses to new retailers. The board would be composed of members appointed by the governor and legislative leaders.
While the bill has been introduced, it is unclear whether it will receive support from the Senate Republican caucus. Key members of the caucus have expressed skepticism about the proposal, with some stating that they do not consider it a priority.
State House Democrats have also introduced their own proposals, including a bill that would require two of the governor’s board appointees to represent labor interests and one to represent a “social and economic equity community.” The bill would also reserve more new licenses for small business owners and people from groups impacted by the criminalization of marijuana.
Despite the efforts to legalize recreational marijuana, it is unclear whether the proposal will move forward. State House Majority Leader Matt Bradford (D-Montgomery) has stated that the issue is now in the hands of Senate Republicans, and it remains to be seen whether they will support the proposal.
