A prominent Pennsylvania lawmaker believes that marijuana legalization could happen as soon as this summer. Representative Dan Frankel (D), who chairs the House Health Committee, described the change as “inevitable,” particularly as Pennsylvania is currently “bleeding out revenue” to neighboring states with legal cannabis, such as Ohio, New York, and Maryland.
In a recent interview with KDKA Radio, Frankel discussed the ongoing efforts to reform cannabis laws in the state. He indicated that to address this disconnect, support criminal justice reform, and boost state revenue, he plans to present a legalization proposal in the coming weeks. Frankel expressed optimism, stating that the legislature might advance a legalization bill as part of the budget reconciliation process that needs to conclude by the end of June.
Governor Josh Shapiro (D) has also included a legalization proposal in his latest budget request. He has indicated that cannabis reform could progress within the same timeline, although uncertainties remain about which legislation could achieve the necessary support for passage.
Frankel highlighted that a bill for adult-use marijuana has already been filed in the Senate by Senator Dan Laughlin (R), although he mentioned that it may not align with his views. He noted, however, that there appears to be some bipartisan support for cannabis reform. Frankel emphasized that despite mixed feelings about legal cannabis in communities, it is a reality that needs regulation for safety.
He pointed out that unregulated synthetic THC products are available in the community, raising safety concerns. Frankel stated, “It’s not legal. It’s not regulated. We don’t know that the products here are safe.” He further explained that the state is losing potential tax revenue to surrounding states benefiting from their legalization of adult-use cannabis, while also sustaining an illicit market that lacks product safety.
Frankel reiterated, “It’s inevitable in Pennsylvania that we’re going to legalize this. The question is when, and I think the time is really right now.” He sees the legalization as a significant revenue source and believes that the current legislative session could see progress. He plans to send a bill to the Senate before June to initiate discussions and negotiations aimed at gaining widespread support.
Additionally, Frankel expressed his commitment to including a criminal justice component in the legalization framework, ensuring that individuals previously criminalized for cannabis offenses can have their records expunged. He emphasized the importance of allowing communities that have been disproportionately affected by the criminal justice system to benefit from legalization.
Frankel also mentioned the need for a public health aspect in the legalization efforts, aiming to address concerns related to health and safety as the state moves towards legal cannabis.
