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Pennsylvania Lawmakers Seek to Legalize Recreational Cannabis

Posted by Joseph D. Lento | Jan 29, 2025 | 0 Comments

In an effort to join a number of surrounding states that have legalized recreational cannabis, a pair of Pennsylvania state legislators are seeking co-sponsors for what they're calling “landmark” laws that could both generate substantial revenue for the state while helping communities harmed by the so-called “war on drugs.”

If you are facing drug-related charges in Pennsylvania, the LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team can help. Call us today at 888.535.3686 or click on our contact link to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.

Seeking Sponsors for Legislation

The two legislators – Rep. Rick Krajewski of Philadelphia County, and Rep. Dan Frankel of Allegheny County – published a memorandum, asking fellow legislators to join them in co-sponsoring laws that would:

  • Expunge convictions “for those affected by draconian drug policies”
  • Reinvest funds collected by taxes on the sale of cannabis into communities “disproportionally harmed by the war on drugs”
  • Introduce standards for legal cannabis sales, including “limiting excessive THC levels” and adopting other measures to protect consumers
  • Provide opportunities for “local and diverse” entrepreneurs to operate “sustainable cannabis” businesses

Not the Only Cannabis Initiative

The proposed legislation is not the only effort underway to legalize cannabis in Pennsylvania. Reps. Aaron Kaufer and Emily Kinkead introduced a bill that would also legalize the recreational sale and use of cannabis and introduce a tax that would in part, help fund new cannabis-related businesses as well as efforts to prevent and treat addiction. That bill would also provide for expungement of cannabis-related convictions. It currently has 18 sponsors, including Reps. Kaufer and Kinkead and was referred to the Committee on Health (chaired by Rep. Frankel, the one seeking co-sponsors for his own bill legalizing cannabis) shortly after it was introduced.

There have been a number of other attempts to move legalized recreational cannabis forward as well, but none that have made it out of the committee stage. Medical marijuana has been legal in Pennsylvania since 2016, and generated more than $35 million in tax revenue in 2021.

Support from the Governor

Pennsylvania's governor, Josh Shapiro, supports the legalization of recreational marijuana. In a budget address, the Governor called for the legislature to legalize cannabis, noting that legalized sales could generate more than $250 million in tax revenue for the Commonwealth each year.

The LLF Law Firm Can Help if You're Facing Cannabis Charges

If you've been charged with possessing or selling cannabis in Pennsylvania, you need the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team will fight for your rights and will defend you against the charges you're facing. We know the drug laws, the courts, and the prosecutors in Pennsylvania, and are here to help you protect your future. Don't try to defend yourself if you're facing criminal drug charges! Call the LLF Law Firm today at 888.535.3686 or use our contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.

Recreational cannabis is likely to be legal in Pennsylvania in the future. Until it is, the LLF Law Firm is here to protect you if you're facing criminal charges for using or selling it.

About the Author

Joseph D. Lento

"I pride myself on having heart and driving hard to get results!" Attorney Joseph D. Lento passionately fights for the futures of his clients in criminal courtrooms in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania as well as in New Jersey and nationwide. He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead prioritizes his clients' needs and well-being. With unparalleled experience occupying several roles in the criminal justice system outside of being an attorney, Joseph D. Lento can give you valuable behind-the-scenes insight as to what is happening during all phases of the legal process. Joseph D. Lento is licensed in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, and is admitted pro hac vice as needed nationwide. In the courtroom and in life, attorney Joseph D. Lento stands up when the bell rings!

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