Pennsylvania House Passes Recreational Marijuana Bill Amidst Budget Negotiations
HARRISBURG, Pa. — In a historic move, the Pennsylvania House voted Wednesday to advance a bill that would allow adults aged 21 and over to legally purchase and use recreational marijuana. This marks the first time such a proposal has cleared either legislative chamber in the state.
The multifaceted bill, sponsored by Democratic Rep. Rick Krajewski of Philadelphia, received unanimous support from the Democratic majority but faced solid opposition from Republicans. As lawmakers engage in annual budget negotiations, this proposal seeks to create jobs and ensure consumer safety while addressing the estimated 12,000 simple possession arrests in Pennsylvania last year.
However, Republican lawmakers expressed concerns that legalization could increase marijuana usage, lead to health issues, and raise workplace safety challenges. Some highlighted the inconsistency with federal law, arguing the bill would ultimately make marijuana more accessible to children.
The bill is expected to undergo revisions as it moves to the Senate. Republican Sen. Dan Laughlin of Erie County suggested that a “state store model” for cannabis sales is unlikely to gain traction.
Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro has included marijuana legalization in his budget proposal, anticipating over $500 million in revenue from licensing fees. Revenue would support Medicaid, public transit, and public schools, while some funds would be allocated to historical community support and substance abuse initiatives.
The House bill proposes that cannabis sales be regulated through the state-owned liquor store system, albeit in separate retail outlets, with oversight from the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. Notably, the legislation allows residents to grow a limited number of plants with a home cultivation permit.
While some support the bill, others, like Chris Goldstein from the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, argue that the centralized approach would hinder small business growth and differ greatly from models in other states.
As deliberations continue, the path for recreational marijuana in Pennsylvania remains uncertain.
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