The Pennsylvania legislature is reportedly “substantially closer” to finalizing a deal on marijuana legalization. According to Democratic Representative Emily Kinkead, an initial vote on a bipartisan cannabis reform bill could happen as soon as this month. Kinkead, who is sponsoring legislation for adult-use marijuana, shared the latest developments during an interview with The Philadelphia Citizen.
Although the path to legalization remains uncertain, Kinkead believes that discussions are progressing. She noted, “We’re closing in on getting to a place where we can all have a conversation and get this across the finish line.” Kinkead expressed optimism that her cannabis bill could soon advance through a House committee, indicating that “we are substantially closer than we were a year ago, or even six months ago.”
Kinkead also highlighted the differing opinions within the legislature regarding cannabis reform. While some Republican members have historically resisted legalization efforts, she pointed out that even those opposed to certain measures are not outright rejecting the idea of legalization. “They’re saying the proposal isn’t what they want it to be, but they’re not saying ‘no’ in any of it,” she explained.
The lawmaker emphasized the importance of ensuring that those harmed by the criminalization of cannabis can benefit from its legalization. She pointed out that it is crucial to realistically establish cannabis retail operations to achieve this goal.
Additionally, a Republican senator in Pennsylvania is advocating for a state “legacy” fund that would utilize tax revenue from adult-use marijuana sales and gaming to invest in the state’s economy.
While the Pennsylvania legislature shows mixed signals about support for legalization, Governor Josh Shapiro has included this policy change in his latest budget request. House Speaker Joanna McClinton stated that Democrats are prepared to pass a marijuana legalization bill, but will need Republican support to succeed, referring to it as a “heavy lift.”
Polls indicate bipartisan support among voters for legalization, yet legislative progress has stalled due to Republican opposition. However, not all GOP members are against the change; one recently suggested that their party should take advantage of the opportunity to lead on this issue.
Representative Rick Krajewski, who plans to file a legalization measure with House Health Committee Chair Dan Frankel, mentioned that legalization would promote “more responsible usage” of cannabis compared to the current situation, where adults often buy from the illicit market or travel to states with regulated products.
In a related development, the Pennsylvania House recently approved a bill sponsored by Frankel aimed at enhancing safety standards and oversight of the state’s medical marijuana program. This measure is seen as necessary to improve compliance with testing, product audits, and lab inspections as lawmakers work toward adult-use legalization.
