Pennsylvania House Passes Landmark Recreational Marijuana Bill
HARRISBURG, Pa. – In a historic vote, the Pennsylvania House has approved a groundbreaking bill that may pave the way for legalizing recreational marijuana, mirroring the state’s liquor sales model through state-owned stores. The bill, designed for adults aged 21 and over, was passed narrowly, with a vote of 102 to 101.
Introduced by Representatives Rick Krajewski of Philadelphia and Dan Frankel of Pittsburgh, the legislation also aims to expunge previous marijuana-related convictions, addressing past injustices. Despite the significant step forward, the bill faces challenges in the Republican-controlled Senate, where concerns about federal regulations and the ongoing illegal status of marijuana linger.
This initiative is part of Governor Josh Shapiro’s broader efforts, highlighted in his February budget proposal, which anticipates generating $1.3 billion in revenue for the state over the next five years. Legalization has gained increasing attention as 24 states, including neighboring New Jersey and Delaware, have already embraced adult-use marijuana.
Currently, Pennsylvania has a medical marijuana program established in 2016, but adults without medical cards are left with limited options, often needing to travel to other states for legal cannabis.
While the House’s approval marks a significant achievement for proponents of cannabis reform, the future of the bill remains uncertain. Lawmakers are set to engage in further discussions, as both supporters and opponents voice their concerns.
As the debate continues, advocates are hopeful that this legislation will not only enhance the state’s economy but also promote social justice through the expungement provisions. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Pennsylvania will join the growing list of states legalizing recreational marijuana.
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