Pennsylvania Lawmakers Unveil New Plan to Legalize Cannabis

Two Pennsylvania lawmakers, Rick Krajewski and Dan Frankel, have introduced a new plan to legalize recreational cannabis in the state. The proposal aims to address social justice issues, generate public revenue, and ensure public safety.

Pennsylvania remains one of the last states in its region to prohibit cannabis, despite growing public support and legalization efforts in neighboring states.

For more news like this, along with all the latest in legalization, research, and lifestyle, download our free cannabis news app.

Push to End Cannabis Prohibition in Pennsylvania

Krajewski and Frankel, both Democratic representatives, issued a co-sponsorship memo describing Pennsylvania as an “outlier” in cannabis policy. They argue that prohibition has failed, noting that Pennsylvanians already access cannabis through neighboring states, unregulated products, or the illicit market.

“Prohibition is a failed policy with significant consequences for our commonwealth,” they wrote in the memo, emphasizing the need for change.

The Pennsylvania lawmakers highlight the disproportionate impact of cannabis prohibition on Black communities, the increased use of unsafe products, and the loss of millions in potential state revenue.

They plan to introduce the legislation into Pennsylvania during the 2025 session, drawing on lessons learned from other states’ successes and challenges with cannabis legalization.

Key Provisions of the Proposed Bill

The proposed legislation seeks to establish a regulated cannabis market in Pennsylvania focused on public health and social equity. Key features include:

• Expungement of prior cannabis-related convictions to address the harm caused by decades of criminalization.
• Community reinvestment, directing funds to areas disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs.
• Safeguards to limit “excessive THC levels” and protect consumers.
• Support for local and diverse operators, prioritizing sustainable and inclusive industrial growth.

By addressing these issues, Krajewski and Frankel believe the legislation can promote equity while fostering economic growth. “It’s time to move forward in Pennsylvania before falling further behind,” Krajewski said.

Public Support and Legislative Momentum in Pennsylvania

Recent polls show bipartisan voter support for cannabis legalization in Pennsylvania, even in politically divided districts. This aligns with national trends, where 24 states have already legalized recreational cannabis, and public opinion increasingly favors reform.

The Democratic caucus, bolstered by its control of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, has expressed a commitment to advancing cannabis legislation. House Majority Leader Matt Bradford noted there is clear interest within the chamber to act on this issue. However, political obstacles remain, as previous bipartisan legalization efforts have stalled in committee.

In September, Representatives Aaron Kaufer and Emily Kinkead introduced a similar bill with 15 co-sponsors, though it has yet to gain traction. Meanwhile, some Republican leaders have softened their stance, acknowledging the need to end criminal penalties for cannabis use.

Economic and Social Implications for Pennsylvania

The proposed legislation could have significant economic benefits for Pennsylvania. Advocacy group reports estimate that adult-use cannabis sales could reach $2.8 billion in the first year, generating up to $720 million in tax revenue and creating 45,000 jobs. Supporters argue these revenues could fund public health initiatives, education, and infrastructure projects.

On the social front, the bill aims to address systemic injustices tied to cannabis prohibition. Frankel described it as a “moral obligation” not only to legalize cannabis but also to repair the harm caused by racially biased drug policies.

Despite the growing momentum, legalization efforts in Pennsylvania are likely to face challenges, including opposition in the Senate.

—

(Featured image courtesy of Governor Tom Wolf (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr)

DISCLAIMER: This article was written by a third-party contributor and does not reflect the opinion of Hemp.im, its management, staff, or its associates. Please review our disclaimer for more information.

This article may include forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “become,” “plan,” “will,” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks as well as uncertainties, including those discussed in the following cautionary statements and elsewhere in this article and on this site. Although the company may believe that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, the actual results that the company may achieve may differ materially from any forward-looking statements, which reflect the opinions of the management of the company only as of the date hereof. Additionally, please make sure to read these important disclosures.

First published in Newsweed, a third-party contributor translated and adapted the article from the original. In case of discrepancy, the original will prevail.

Although we made reasonable efforts to provide accurate translations, some parts may be incorrect. Hemp.im assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions or ambiguities in the translations provided on this website. Any person or entity relying on translated content does so at their own risk. Hemp.im is not responsible for losses caused by such reliance on the accuracy or reliability of translated information. If you wish to report an error or inaccuracy in the translation, we encourage you to contact us.