Pennsylvania Governor Urges Lawmakers to Legalize Marijuana, Citing Shift in Federal Policy
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is again calling on lawmakers to pass a bill legalizing marijuana for adult use, citing a shift in federal policy that he believes will make it easier for states to reform their cannabis laws.
In his latest budget proposal, Shapiro emphasized that the federal government has taken steps to “reform its approach to cannabis,” specifically referencing a proposal to reclassify cannabis as a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This, he argued, creates an opportunity for states to follow suit and legalize marijuana.
Shapiro’s proposal would establish a regulatory framework for legalizing and taxing adult-use cannabis, generating an estimated $200 million in revenue annually once the law is fully implemented. The governor also wants to see the legislature invest $10 million in restorative justice initiatives and provide $25 million to assist new small businesses entering the industry.
The governor’s push for legalization comes as neighboring states have already legalized marijuana, and he believes Pennsylvania is falling behind. “Pennsylvania remains stuck in place, without commonsense protections and losing out on critical tax revenue and new business to neighboring states,” Shapiro said.
Shapiro’s proposal also includes a plan to cut taxes, rather than raise them, and to provide funding for law enforcement agencies and the judicial system to deal with the consequences of marijuana prohibition.
Some lawmakers have expressed skepticism about the proposal, citing concerns about the federal classification of cannabis. However, others see the shift in federal policy as a potential game-changer, and are hopeful that it will pave the way for legalization in Pennsylvania.
In the past, efforts to legalize marijuana in Pennsylvania have stalled due to opposition from GOP lawmakers. However, with the shift in federal policy and growing public support for legalization, Shapiro is hopeful that the tide is turning in favor of reform.
The governor’s proposal is still pending, and it remains to be seen whether lawmakers will take up the issue. However, with the momentum building in favor of legalization, it’s possible that Pennsylvania could join the growing list of states that have legalized marijuana for adult use.
