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Hawaii Social Justice Groups Gather in Support of Cannabis Legalization

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HAWAII:Hawaii social justice groups will gather on Wednesday for a news conference in support of legislation to legalize, regulate, and tax cannabis. The event is being held as momentum for legalization picks up in the state. Scheduled speakers at the event include Rep. Jeanné Kapela, DeVaughn Ward of the Marijuana Policy Project, Nikos Leverenz of Drug Policy Forum Hawaii, and George Cordero of the ACLU Hawaii. The group will also be urging state lawmakers to include processes for automatic record clearance and resentencing in cannabis proposals. 

WHAT: News conference with Hawaii social justice organizations to advocate for ending the prohibition of cannabis and providing retroactive relief for the victims of cannabis prohibition

WHEN: Wednesday, January 11, 10:30 a.m. HST

WHERE: Rotunda of the Capitol, 415 S Beretania St., Honolulu, HI 96813

WHO: Rep. Jeanné Kapela, 5th District

DeVaughn Ward, Marijuana Policy Project

George Cordero, ACLU of Hawai‘i

Nikos Leverenz, Drug Policy Forum of Hawaii

Gracie Johnson, Last Prisoner Project (In Absentia)

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Governor Lamont Announces Start of Adult-Use Cannabis Sales at Connecticut’s First Group of Licensed Retailers

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New Industry Will Bring Jobs, Economic Growth, and Reinvestment in Communities Harmed by Cannabis Prohibition

CONNECTICUT: Governor Ned Lamont today announced that first legal retail sales in Connecticut of adult-use cannabis to all adults aged 21 and over began this morning at several retailers that have been licensed to sell the products. The licensed retailers were permitted to begin selling cannabis products effective at 10:00 a.m. today.

The opening of the adult-use cannabis market in Connecticut marks the start of an expanded cannabis industry that prioritizes the safe and equitable regulation of adult-use cannabis, as well as the preservation of the medical marijuana market, which continues to serve nearly 50,000 patients in the state. The law implementing these measures was signed by Governor Lamont in 2021 and contains comprehensive reforms addressing equity, criminal justice, public health, and public safety.

This new industry is expected to bring hundreds of new, good-paying jobs to Connecticut as businesses continue to open and expand, including work in production and jobs directly handling cannabis products, as well as industry support like technical jobs, administrative and information technology positions, and security.

The law takes a comprehensive approach to promoting social equity, focused on the neighborhoods most impacted by the war on drugs. It provides for expungement of past cannabis-related crimes and reserves half of all cannabis business licenses for people from impacted neighborhoods. In addition, more than half of the revenue from cannabis sales will be dedicated to a new fund that will be invested in those neighborhoods.

“Today marks a turning point in the injustices caused by the war on drugs, most notably now that there is a legal alternative to the dangerous, unregulated, underground market for cannabis sales,” Governor Lamont said. “Together with our partners in the legislature and our team of professionals at the Department of Consumer Protection, we’ve carefully crafted a securely regulated market that prioritizes public health, public safety, social justice, and equity. I look forward to continuing our efforts to ensure that this industry remains inclusive and safe as it develops.”

“An old conviction for a low-level cannabis possession shouldn’t hold someone back from pursuing their career, housing, professional, and educational aspirations,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “Governor Lamont and I welcome this change to help people regain their freedom and the opportunity to pursue the careers and jobs they rightfully deserve.”

The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection has overseen the regulation of the adult-use cannabis market in the state, ensuring that it prioritizes public health and safety.

“This is an exciting day for Connecticut and our team at the Department of Consumer Protection, which has worked tirelessly to stand up this safe, well-regulated and equitable new market,” Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle H. Seagull said. “We will continue to ensure the patients in our medical marijuana program receive the standard of care and service they have come to expect, and as always, we encourage all adults who choose to purchase and use cannabis to do so responsibly.”

The Social Equity Council was created by that same law that Governor Lamont signed in 2021 and has been tasked with ensuring the adult-use cannabis market is grown equitably and to bring funds from the program back to the communities hit hardest by the war on drugs.

“The opening of this new marketplace is an important milestone in the work of the Social Equity Council and a culmination of a lot of hard work over the past year,” Paul O. Robertson, deputy commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development and chair of the Social Equity Council, said. “In my role as chair, I will be focused on ensuring we fully capitalize on this opportunity to lend a helping hand to those negatively impacted by the war on drugs.”

There are three taxes on the retail sale of cannabis, including the state’s usual 6.35% sales tax, a 3% sales tax dedicated to the city or town where the sale occurs, and a tax based on THC content that will cost approximately 10% to 15% of the sale price.

As of today, the retailers in Connecticut that have been licensed to sell cannabis products to all adults aged 21 and older include:

  • Affinity Health and Wellness (New Haven)
  • The Botanist – Danbury (Danbury)
  • The Botanist – Montville (Montville)
  • Fine Fettle Dispensary – Newington (Newington)
  • Fine Fettle Dispensary – Stamford (Stamford)
  • Fine Fettle Dispensary – Willimantic (Willimantic)
  • RISE Branford (formerly Bluepoint Wellness of Connecticut) (Branford)
  • Still River Wellness (Torrington)
  • Zen Leaf Meriden (formerly Willow Brook Wellness) (Meriden)

New York Governor Hochul Announces Start of Adult-Use Cannabis Retail Sales

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Housing Works, a Non-Profit Supporting Formerly Incarcerated New Yorkers, to Make First Cannabis Sale in Manhattan December 29

Completes the Cannabis Supply Chain Started by the Seeding Opportunity Initiative

NEW YORK: Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that sales of legal, regulated adult-use cannabis will start on December 29 at a dispensary in Manhattan, operated by Housing Works, the nation’s largest minority-controlled HIV/AIDS service organization and largest community-based HIV/AIDS service organization. The non-profit, based in New York City, operates a range of direct and support services for people living with HIV/AIDS, the homeless, formerly incarcerated, and justice involved individuals. It also operates a network of charitable retail storefronts.

“We set a course just nine months ago to start New York’s adult-use cannabis market off on the right foot by prioritizing equity, and now, we’re fulfilling that goal,” Governor Hochul said. “The industry will continue to grow from here, creating inclusive opportunity in every corner of New York State with revenues directed to our schools and revitalizing communities.”

This historic event will mark a critical milestone in the Seeding Opportunity Initiative, which was designed to set New York on a path to fulfilling the goals of New York’s Cannabis Law by building an adult-use cannabis industry that offsets the harms resulting from the disproportionate impact of cannabis prohibition.

Announced by Governor Hochul in March, the Initiative has provided for the licensing of 280 family farmers to grow the first adult-use cannabis in New York State. These tested, safer cannabis products will be sold by the first licensed adult-use dispensaries in New York, which are either owned by successful business operators, or a close family member, who have a cannabis conviction (justice involved); or non-profit organizations that provide services to individuals who have been harmed by the unequal enforcement of cannabis prohibition.

To qualify, nonprofits, such as Housing Works, also need to have at least one justice-involved board member and create vocational opportunities for those with a marijuana conviction. Housing Works has served justice-involved New Yorkers since its inception in 1990 through direct services and advocacy initiatives. Today, Housing Works’ Justice Initiative tailors the non-profit’s services to meet the needs of formerly incarcerated individuals, including those with marijuana convictions.

Cannabis Control Board Chairwoman Tremaine Wright said, “I’m excited that a non-profit like Housing Works, with its support for formerly incarcerated individuals, will lead the way with sales. The start of sales through the Seeding Opportunity Initiative is just the beginning of the robust ecosystem we’re building – the equitable and inclusive market will grow from here with supports throughout to ensure licensees are able to overcome barriers and build this new industry.”

Cannabis Control Board Member Jen Metzger said, “New York is taking the right path in building its legal cannabis industry, with the state’s first retail dispensaries operated by entrepreneurs and non-profits dedicated to serving their community and prioritizing public health. At the same time, we are strengthening the linkages between our urban and rural communities to the benefit of consumers, stocking the shelves of these first dispensaries with sustainably grown, high-quality, sun-grown cannabis that was cultivated on New York’s small and family farms.”

Cannabis Control Board Member Jessica Garcia said, “Positioning justice involved individuals, and the non-profits that support them, as the first to make sales is putting New York on the right track to meet the goals of the New York Cannabis Law while providing protections to workers in the industry by creating pathways to union cannabis careers. This is a big, first step forward for the cannabis industry we’re building in New York – it’s an important one and it’s only the beginning.”

Cannabis Control Board Member Adam Perry said, “This is history in the making as we work to address the harm caused by cannabis prohibition and fully implement the goals of New York’s Cannabis Law. This is the right start for the industry, and I look forward to continuing to work with our team to support all license types to ensure we’re not only delivering licenses to social equity entrepreneurs, but also setting them up for success over the long-term.”

Chris Alexander, Executive Director for the Office of Cannabis Management, said, “I’m proud of the supply chain we built from the ground-up through the Seeding Opportunity Initiative by relying on family farmers and justice involved individuals and the non-profits that support them, and I’m thankful to Governor Hochul and the Legislature for their support in bringing it to fruition. Not only have we ended the prohibition in New York, but we’re showing the nation, and the world, how to build a market that’s truly equitable and inclusive, and works to undo the harms caused by the disproportionate enforcement of cannabis prohibition. Every dollar spent in this growing industry will help support independent businesses, our schools, and our communities.”

State Senator Liz Krueger said, “I am gratified to see the start of the adult retail cannabis sales, and that Housing Works will be launching the first store. Their decades of work with marginalized communities make them a perfect partner in the effort to ensure that New York’s Cannabis market provides meaningful opportunities to those most impacted by the failed cannabis criminalization policies of the past.”

Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “Today’s historic announcement is a monumental development in establishing a cannabis economy in New York centered on justice and equity as envisioned by the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act and the Seeding Opportunity Initiative. I am excited for Housing Works and the other justice involved individuals and non-profits that will soon be opening their doors to the public for the purchase of safe and reliable cannabis products. This initial completion of New York’s first home grown cannabis supply chain is just the beginning of what is sure to become a thriving and equitable new industry.”

Charles King, CEO of Housing Works, said, “At our core, we’re a healing community dedicated to providing housing, healthcare and vocational programs for New Yorkers. This opportunity will not only give our team the resources to further our overall mission, but to feature and elevate products coming from LGBTQ+, BIPOC and women-led cannabis brands across the state.”

Sasha Nutgent, Store Manager of Housing Works Cannabis Co, said, “This is a once in a lifetime moment. That said, our nonprofit’s mission remains as urgent as ever. We are eager to take the lead as a social equity model for America’s cannabis industry, specifically with our hiring practices and continued support of individuals and communities disproportionately impacted by the unjust War on Drugs.”

The storefront operated by Housing Works is located at 750 Broadway in the Astor Place neighborhood. All proceeds from dispensary sales will be directed to parent organization Housing Works, Inc., founded in 1990 to address the dual crises of HIV/AIDS and homelessness. The self-sustaining nonprofit provides job opportunities, legal advocacy and comprehensive housing and health services funded, in part, by revenues from its thrift stores, SoHo bookstore and now its cannabis dispensary. With a focus on compassion and dispelling stigmas, Housing Works endeavors to move the cannabis industry forward by supporting the practical needs of their community through an equity-driven and harm reduction approach.

Spanning 4,400 square feet, the iconic building where the dispensary will be, known as 1 Astor Place, was completed in 1883. Housing Works Cannabis Co will welcome patrons with an introductory shopping experience upon opening, with plans to carefully build out an expanded and thoughtfully curated space as cannabis products become more available.

Housing Works Cannabis Co, located at 750 Broadway in Manhattan’s Astor Place neighborhood, will be open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hours will adjust in the coming weeks. Learn more here.

To date, the New York State Cannabis Control Board has approved 36 Conditional Adult Use Retail Dispensary Licenses, including 28 for qualifying businesses and 8 for non-profits. Earlier this month, the Office of Cannabis Management released guidance to support retail businesses in starting their operations with delivery service to help jumpstart sales.

LEGALIZATION 2022: Developments in State Cannabis Laws & Bipartisan Cannabis Reforms at the Federal Level

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Meeting Notes: The hearing will convene in room 2154 of the Rayburn House Office Building and over Zoom, which has been approved by the House.
Date: Tuesday, November 15, 2022 – 10:00am
Location: 2154 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
Subcommittees:

Chairman Jamie B. Raskin’s Opening Statement [PDF]

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA: On Tuesday, November 15, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. ET, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, and Rep. Nancy Mace, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, will hold a hybrid hearing to examine the many benefits of cannabis decriminalization at the federal level, including addressing racial disparities in the criminal justice system, improving treatment options for veterans, and allowing marijuana companies to access traditional banking services.

Marijuana arrests account for 43% of all drug arrests, and nine in ten of those marijuana arrests are for simple possession.  Although Black and white people use cannabis at roughly the same rates, Black people are nearly four times more likely to be arrested for violating marijuana possession laws, which carries life-altering implications for employment, housing, and education.  Decriminalizing cannabis at the federal level and expunging criminal convictions for possession would alleviate these burdens and allow for societal advancement.

As of May 27, 2022, 19 states, two territories, and the District of Columbia have enacted measures to regulate cannabis for adult non-medical use.  In addition, 37 states, three territories, and the District of Columbia allow the use of medical marijuana.  Decriminalizing marijuana at the federal level would allow veterans suffering from PTSD and chronic pain to access medical marijuana for treatment.

On October 6, 2022, President Biden announced that he will pardon individuals convicted of simple marijuana possession under federal law and called for a review of how marijuana is scheduled under the Controlled Substances Act.  Building on this critical step, advocates are calling for action in Congress to decriminalize cannabis at the federal level.

The hearing will examine legislative efforts to remove cannabis from the controlled substance list, including the House passage of the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act (MORE Act), and to balance federal regulation of this burgeoning industry with existing state-based regimes.

WITNESSES

Randall Woodfin

Mayor City of Birmingham, Alabama

Paul Armentano

Deputy Director

National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML)

Andrew Freedman

Executive Director

Coalition for Cannabis Policy, Education, and Regulation (CPEAR)

Eric Goepel

Founder and CEO

Veterans Cannabis Coalition

Keeda Haynes

Senior Legal Advisor

Free Hearts

Amber Littlejohn

Senior Policy Advisor

Global Alliance for Cannabis Commerce

Jillian Snider

Policy Director of Criminal Justice & Civil Liberties

R Street Institute

DOCUMENTS

117th Congress

Texas Voters Pass All Five Ground Game Texas Marijuana Decriminalization Ballot Initiatives

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Seven communities in Texas have approved or adopted initiatives launched by Ground Game Texas

TEXAS: On Tuesday, voters in Texas overwhelmingly passed all five ballot initiatives launched by Ground Game Texas to decriminalize low-level marijuana use.

Ground Game Texas issued the following statement in response to the results:

“From day one, Ground Game Texas has said that progressive change doesn’t come from the top down, it comes from the ground up,” said Julie Oliver, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Ground Game Texas. “With the support of an army of organizers, volunteers, donors, and everyday Texans, we put progressive change directly on the ballot in five communities–and all five passed with flying colors. Now it’s the job of lawmakers in these communities to enforce the will of the people. Ground Game Texas will continue to use direct democracy to pass popular policies, bring more voters into the fold, and mobilize them behind progressive change.”

Below are the final tallies for the initiatives:

Denton – 71.35%
Killeen – 69.45%
Harker Heights – 64.02%
Elgin – 74.01%
San Marcos – 81.84%

With the passage of these initiatives, seven communities in Texas — Austin, Alton, Denton, Killeen, Harker Heights, Elgin, San Marcos — have approved or adopted initiatives launched by Ground Game Texas.  In May, Ground Game Texas passed an initiative in Austin to decriminalize marijuana and ban “No-Knock” warrants by local police. Additionally, last weekend the city clerk in El Paso approved a Ground Game Texas initiative for the May 2023 ballot to amend the city charter to adopt a citywide climate policy.

Ohio Congressman Dave Joyce Statement on White House Cannabis Announcements

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DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA: Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14), a Republican Co-Chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, issued the following statement in response to the White House announcement regarding cannabis expungement and descheduling efforts:

“With nearly two thirds of Americans in agreement on the need for federal cannabis reform and 76% of Republicans in support of the federal government removing any obstacles if states choose to legalize cannabis, I’m pleased to see the White House begin to seriously engage on the topic. 

“Last year, my late colleague and Republican Cannabis Caucus Co-Chair, Don Young, and I called on the President multiple times to reschedule cannabis under the Federal Controlled Substances Act. I applaud the President for listening and rejecting the all-or-nothing approach demanded by so many in his own party.

“I also commend the President’s recognition of the need for state and local level expungement efforts. The bulk of petty, non-violent cannabis convictions take place at the state and local level, so to truly remedy the unjust war on cannabis, we must start there and vacate antiquated offenses that are no longer even considered a crime. More than 14 million cannabis-related records at the state and local level continue to preclude Americans from stable housing and gainful employment – two cornerstones of safe and prosperous communities.

“Republicans have long championed policies that help remove barriers preventing people from achieving their American dream, especially barriers created by the federal government. Incentivizing the expungement of these state and local records and addressing their unjust consequences, is — and can further be — a bipartisan cause. If lawmakers work across the aisle and build on the bipartisan consensus established by the HOPE Act and the PREPARE Act, we can take unprecedented action to transform lives, pave the way for millions of Americans to reach their full potential, and give lawmakers on both sides of the aisle the answers they need to legislate not only a responsible end to prohibition but also a safer future for our communities.

“Today’s announcement from the White House recognizes two truths: that continued and complete federal cannabis prohibition is no longer the will of the American electorate, and that the President knows his party’s all-or-nothing approach to cannabis reform has failed to produce results in Congress.

“The President has acted. Now it’s time for Congress to do the same. Passing bills that simply check the box on this issue won’t get the job done. We need legislation that can establish the bipartisan consensus necessary to become law. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in both chambers to make that a reality and stand ready, willing, and able to work in good faith on this issue with anyone regardless of political affiliation.”

President Biden Issues A Proclamation on Granting Pardon for the Offense of Simple Possession of Marijuana

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    Acting pursuant to the grant of authority in Article II, Section 2, of the Constitution of the United States, I, Joseph R. Biden Jr., do hereby grant a full, complete, and unconditional pardon to (1) all current United States citizens and lawful permanent residents who committed the offense of simple possession of marijuana in violation of the Controlled Substances Act, as currently codified at 21 U.S.C. 844 and as previously codified elsewhere in the United States Code, or in violation of D.C. Code 48–904.01(d)(1), on or before the date of this proclamation, regardless of whether they have been charged with or prosecuted for this offense on or before the date of this proclamation; and (2) all current United States citizens and lawful permanent residents who have been convicted of the offense of simple possession of marijuana in violation of the Controlled Substances Act, as currently codified at 21 U.S.C. 844 and as previously codified elsewhere in the United States Code, or in violation of D.C. Code 48–904.01(d)(1); which pardon shall restore to them full political, civil, and other rights.

My intent by this proclamation is to pardon only the offense of simple possession of marijuana in violation of Federal law or in violation of D.C. Code 48–904.01(d)(1), and not any other offenses related to marijuana or other controlled substances.  No language herein shall be construed to pardon any person for any other offense, including possession of other controlled substances, whether committed prior, subsequent, or contemporaneous to the pardoned offense of simple possession of marijuana.  This pardon does not apply to individuals who were non-citizens not lawfully present in the United States at the time of their offense.

Pursuant to this proclamation, the Attorney General, acting through the Pardon Attorney, shall administer and effectuate the issuance of certificates of pardon to eligible applicants who have been charged or convicted for the offense of simple possession of marijuana in violation of the Controlled Substances Act, as currently codified at 21 U.S.C. 844 and as previously codified elsewhere in the United States Code, or in violation of D.C. Code 48–904.01(d)(1).  The Attorney General, acting through the Pardon Attorney, is directed to develop and announce application procedures for certificates of pardon and to begin accepting applications in accordance with such procedures as soon as reasonably practicable.  The Attorney General, acting through the Pardon Attorney, shall review all properly submitted applications and shall issue certificates of pardon to eligible applicants in due course.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-two, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-seventh.

                               JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

Gov. Beshear’s Advisory Committee Reports: Kentuckians Want Medical Cannabis Legalized

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Governor is applying Kentuckians’ feedback to inform next steps

KENTUCKY: Kentuckians agree that it is past time for the commonwealth to take action on legalizing medical cannabis, Gov. Andy Beshear said today as he released a summary of the feedback obtained by his Medical Cannabis Advisory Committee.

As a supporter of legalizing medical cannabis for those suffering from chronic conditions, like our veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the Governor formed the Team Kentucky Medical Cannabis Advisory Committee to travel the state and listen to Kentuckians’ views on the topic after the state legislature failed to pass legislation earlier this year.

“Polling suggests 90% of Kentucky adults support legalizing medical cannabis. Our team traveled the state to talk directly to Kentuckians, and they found our people do indeed overwhelmingly support it,” Gov. Beshear said. “I appreciate the work of those who participated, and I am taking this information into consideration as I analyze what steps I can take to legalize medical cannabis for those suffering from chronic, debilitating medical conditions.”

The Governor said the summary from the committee included these key findings:

  • Kentuckians of all ages are suffering from chronic conditions. Medical providers are prescribing opioids and painkillers that are not providing relief, and Kentuckians are fearful of their addictive properties. Research indicates individuals cannot overdose from cannabis.
  • Kentuckians are leaving the state to access medical cannabis in states where it is legal. They want to be able to return to the commonwealth without breaking the law.
  • Kentucky military veterans explained that PTSD was significantly eased by the use of cannabis.

Kerry Harvey, co-chair of the committee and secretary of the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, noted the advisory committee did not hear any opposition at their town hall meetings.

“Everyone who spoke supported legalizing medical cannabis in Kentucky,” Harvey said. “We heard from many Kentuckians that use cannabis for its beneficial medical effects but can only do so by breaking the law as it now exists. Many of these Kentuckians must leave the commonwealth to legally obtain medical cannabis in one of the 38 states where it is legal.”

Attendees of the town hall meetings recounted finding relief from medical cannabis after living with chronic symptoms for many years. These Kentuckians reported an increased ability to engage in the activities of daily living after using cannabis. For them, medical cannabis proved effective, while other treatments, such as opioids, did not.

“Our nation is dealing with a critical crisis from the overuse of addictive opioids. The people we heard from are looking for pain relief that allows them to live useful, productive lives,” said Ray Perry, co-chair of the committee and secretary of the Public Protection Cabinet. “We heard about family trauma stemming from unresolved pain and addictive painkillers. We also heard the frustration that politics deprives them of legal access to an efficacious treatment available to an overwhelming majority of Americans.”

Military veterans attending the town halls emphasized the benefits of cannabis in reducing PTSD symptoms. Some described the inability to sleep because of the disorder, while others reported being prescribed numerous medications to ease pain, treat anxiety, sleep or move their joints fully.

A veteran from Northern Kentucky, who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, described his daily struggle after being prescribed 13 medications that weren’t effective, which left him contemplating suicide. After turning to cannabis, he said, “Within a year, I didn’t drink and was off 12 of the 13 medications. I still have all those injuries and disabilities, but I can function. I can live. I can have friendships and conversations again.”

In addition to the town hall meetings, the state’s medical cannabis website allowed Kentuckians to submit their opinions online. The website received 3,539 comments, 98.64% of which expressed support for legalizing medical cannabis in Kentucky.

Visit medicalcannabis.ky.gov for a list of advisory team members, which includes Kentuckians with experience in health care, treatment of opioid use disorder and other diseases of addiction, law enforcement, criminal justice and advocacy for medical cannabis.

New Poll Finds Overwhelming Majority of GOP Voters Support Medical Access to Cannabis and Feel the Federal Government Shouldn’t Intervene in State Legalization

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Most Republicans Support Cannabis Banking and U.S. Capital Markets Access

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA:  Support for legal cannabis, including companies having access to banking services and U.S. capital markets, reached a new high among Republican voters, according to a new national poll released today. Most Republicans agree that the federal government shouldn’t interfere in state legalization and regulation. To view a summary of the poll’s findings and methodology, click here.

The poll, conducted by top Republican and Trump pollster Fabrizio, Lee & Associates, on behalf of the National Cannabis Roundtable (NCR), found that 73% of Republicans agree that legal cannabis businesses should be entitled to the same rights as other legal businesses. Over three quarters of GOP voters (76%) agree that if states legalize cannabis, the federal government should not fight the state, but step aside and remove any obstacles. States, instead of the federal government, should be responsible for cannabis legalization, 58% of respondents say.

“There’s been a massive shift in opinion, and its evidently clear that Republicans have extremely positive attitudes towards legal cannabis,” said former Sen. Cory Gardner (R-CO), an NCR advisory board member. “We’ll likely see support for legal cannabis continue to increase this November when Republicans in at least a half dozen states and counties vote on legalization and other issues. Which is why it’s time for Congress to enact commonsense cannabis reform this year, starting with key pieces of legislation like SAFE Banking and CLIMB.”

Access to banking services and U.S. stock exchanges would be achieved through the bipartisan Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act and Capital Lending and Investment for Marijuana Businesses (CLIMB) Act. SAFE Banking, introduced by Rep. Ed Perlmutter (D-CO), has passed the U.S. House six times, most recently in Feb. 2022. Reps. Troy Carter (D-La.) and Guy Reschenthaler (R-Pa) introduced the CLIMB Act in June 2022.

Respondents also shared their perspectives on other cannabis reforms, such as decriminalization. Over two-thirds of respondents (69%) favor sentence reviews for people convicted of non-violent cannabis crimes in states where cannabis is now legal for adult use. By a solid 56%, a majority of GOP voters favor expunging cannabis convictions from a person’s record if adult use cannabis is now legal in their state. The poll found that nearly three-quarters of GOP voters (73%) favor legalizing cannabis for medical purposes. Nearly half of GOP voters (47%) have used cannabis recreationally, for medicinal purposes or both.

“These findings support what I’ve been saying for years: cannabis is no longer the partisan issue it once was,” said Congressman Dave Joyce (R-OH), Co-Chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus. “Congress needs to act in a bipartisan manner and enact the change that Americans, both Republicans and Democrats alike, are calling for. It’s past time for the federal government to respect the will of the states that have legalized cannabis in some form and allow them to make their own decisions in the best interest of their constituents without interference from Washington.”


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Majority Leader Schumer, Senate Finance Committee Chair Wyden And Senator Booker Release Discussion Draft Of Cannabis Administration & Opportunity Act

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Legislation To End The Federal Cannabis Prohibition And Unfair Targeting Of Communities Of Color

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA:  Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) today released a discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, proposed legislation that would help put an end to the unfair targeting and treatment of communities of color by removing cannabis from the federal list of controlled substances and empowering states to implement their own cannabis laws. 

Ending the federal prohibition on cannabis is becoming increasingly urgent as more and more states continue to legalize adult and medical use of cannabis. Despite the fact that cannabis is illegal under federal law, the majority of Americans live in a state where cannabis is legal in one form or another and more than 90 percent of Americans believe it should be legalized for either adult or medical use.

The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act would ensure that Americans in all communities will not be arrested or barred from receiving essential services for using cannabis where it is legal. This proposal would also ensure state-compliant cannabis businesses will be able to access the essential financial services and will preserve the integrity of state cannabis laws while providing a path for federal regulation.

Importantly, this legislative proposal goes a step beyond legalizing cannabis by expunging federal non-violent marijuana crimes and allowing individuals currently serving time in federal prison for non-violent marijuana crimes to petition a court for resentencing. It will also establish a fund to reinvest in the communities that were hurt by the War on Drugs and provide restorative justice to communities of color.

Senators Booker, Wyden, and Schumer thank Senator Murray and her HELP Committee staff for their work in developing the Food and Drug Administration and public health components of the Discussion Draft.

“I am proud to introduce our discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act, a legislative proposal aimed at finally putting an end to the federal prohibition of cannabis and addressing the over-criminalization of cannabis in a comprehensive and meaningful way,” said Majority Leader Schumer. “The War on Drugs has too often been a war on people, and particularly people of color. Not only will this legislation remove cannabis from the federal list of controlled substances, but it will also help fix our criminal justice system, ensure restorative justice, protect public health, and implement responsible taxes and regulations.”

“Cannabis prohibition, a key pillar of the failed War on Drugs, has caused substantial harm to our communities and small businesses, and especially for communities of color,” said Senate Finance Committee Chair Wyden. “It’s as simple as this: Senators Booker, Schumer and I want to bring common sense to the federal government, end prohibition and restore the lives of those hurt most and set them up for opportunity.”

“For decades, our federal government has waged a War on Drugs that has unfairly impacted low-income communities and communities of color,” said Senator Booker. “While red and blue states across the country continue to legalize marijuana, the federal government continues to lag woefully behind. It is time for Congress to end the federal marijuana prohibition and reinvest in communities most impacted by the failed War on Drugs. I am proud to introduce this landmark piece of legislation with Senator Wyden and Majority Leader Schumer that will finally turn the page on this dark chapter in American history and begin righting these wrongs.”

The text of the discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act can be found HERE, a one pager can be found HERE and a detailed summary can be found HERE.

Summary of the discussion draft of the Cannabis Administration And Opportunity Act:

The War on Drugs has been a war on people—particularly people of color. The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act aims to end the decades of harm inflicted on communities of color by removing cannabis from the federal list of controlled substances and empowering states to implement their own cannabis laws.

Federal cannabis reforms are especially urgent as more and more states legalize the adult and medical use of cannabis. To date, the adult use of cannabis is legal in 18 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam; and 37 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have advanced laws to allow medical cannabis, with nearly all Americans living in a state where some form of cannabis is legal. These changes represent a dynamic shift in public opinion and support across the political spectrum. Today, more than 90 percent of Americans believe cannabis should be legal either for adult or medical use. Despite legalization under state law and broad public support for cannabis legalization, cannabis remains illegal under federal law.

By ending the failed federal prohibition of cannabis, the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act will ensure that Americans – especially Black and Brown Americans – no longer have to fear arrest or be barred from public housing or federal financial aid for higher education for using cannabis in states where it’s legal. State-compliant cannabis businesses will finally be treated like other businesses and allowed access to essential financial services, like bank accounts and loans. Medical research will no longer be stifled.

But this alone is not enough. The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act includes restorative measures to lift up people and communities who were unfairly targeted in the War on Drugs. The bill automatically expunges federal non-violent marijuana crimes and allows an individual currently serving time in federal prison for non-violent marijuana crimes to petition a court for resentencing.

The legislation also creates an “Opportunity Trust Fund” funded by federal cannabis tax revenue to reinvest in the communities most impacted by the failed War on Drugs, as well as helping to level the playing field for entrepreneurs of color who continue to face barriers of access to the industry. Importantly, the legislation also ends discrimination in federal public benefits for medical marijuana patients and adult use consumers. The legislation preserves the integrity of state cannabis laws and provides a path for responsible federal regulation of the cannabis industry. Like with federal regulations on alcohol, states can determine their own cannabis laws, but federal prohibition will no longer be an obstacle. Regulatory responsibility will be moved from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF), as well as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to protect public health. Additionally, revenue generated by federal taxes will support restorative justice and public health and safety research.

U.S. Senators Cory Booker, D-N.J., Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., (collectively referred to in this document as the “Sponsoring Offices”) are committed to turning the page on this sad chapter in American history and undoing the devastating consequences of current discriminatory cannabis policies. As such, they are seeking feedback from the public as they finalize their proposal. The Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act discussion draft is a detailed legislative proposal meant to spur a robust discussion among stakeholders in order to inform the Sponsoring Offices as they work to craft a final legislative proposal. The Sponsoring Offices request comments from stakeholders and members of the public, including social and criminal justice advocates, industry stakeholders, members of the public health and law enforcement communities, members of Congress, federal officials, state and local officials, and others for review and comment.