Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said that a federal marijuana legalization bill; that he plans to introduce will be ready for the chamber soon.
At a Sunday press conference, Schumer said “a large majority” of the Democratic caucus would like to end prohibition. He also said that support is coming from unexpected places like the libertarian right.
“I am going to put this bill on the floor soon. It hasn’t been introduced yet,” the majority leader said. He added that he’s been working with Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) to draft the reform measure. “Once it is introduced, it will go on the floor.”
Schumer said that he has studied legalization carefully before he officially supported it. Many claims from people that oppose legalization say that enacting the policy would lead to many problems. Including increased crime, substance misuse, and other issues. But we have multiple states that did legalize it and that has not been the case.
What Will be in the Bill?
Schumer and other cosponsors started their reform earlier in the year by holding a meeting with representatives from multiple advocacy groups. In order to gain feedback on the best approach for reform.
The text of the bill has yet to be filed. Unfortunately, few details about the specifics of the bill are available. But we do know one of the goals is to remove marijuana from the list of federally controlled substances. It also will aim to promote social equity.
Schumer did make a point to say that the bill will specifically seek to restrict the ability of large alcohol and tobacco companies to overtake the cannabis industry.
He wants the bill to prioritize small businesses. Specifically, those owned by people from communities most impacted by prohibition. Focusing on “justice, justice, justice-as well as freedom,” Schumer said.
Finally, he wants to encourage voters to contact their congressional representatives and tell them that “this is long overdue.”
Make sure to check back for more cannabis and hemp related news.