WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Richard Neal supports the recent passed House bill that would decriminalize cannabis on the federal level.

In a written statement the chair of the House Ways & Means Committee said, “Today’s [DEC. 4] House consideration of the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act of 2020 or the MORE Act marks an important step in mitigating the impacts of the historically racist war on drugs.  This legislation will reform our federal criminal laws while also making investments in and empowering communities of color and those adversely affected by current unjust policies.

“The MORE Act makes important changes to federal law by removing marijuana, or cannabis, from the list of federally controlled substances.  This change to federal law does not undermine the ability of states to apply their criminal laws to marijuana as they see fit. Instead, it makes marijuana a federally regulated substance that is subject to the FDA’s regulatory authority and federal taxation.  The excise tax that is established by the bill is similar to those for alcohol and tobacco.

“By creating a legal marijuana market that is subject to federal taxation, this legislation also creates an opportunity trust fund that will increase opportunities for individuals and communities affected by the War on Drugs. The opportunity trust fund will fund programs such as job training, reentry services, and substance use disorder services, as well as assistance to small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.”

Neal concluded,“I thank my colleague, Representative Blumenauer, for his tireless leadership on this issue.  As this bill continues through the legislative process, I look forward to continuing to work with the measure’s sponsors and the other committees of jurisdiction to achieve an effective tax regime that supports a vibrant legal market and provides individuals most affected by the war on drugs the opportunity to fully participate in this emerging economy.”

Recreational use of cannabis is legal in 15 states, while  many other states have legalized the medicinal use.  

Nicole Austin-Hillery, executive director of the US program at Human Rights Watch, released  the following statement: “Passage of the MORE Act in the House charts a path to repair and redress for the devastating toll wrought by marijuana prohibition on countless families in the US, disproportionately affecting black and brown communities. The incoming Biden administration should work for the bill’s passage in the Senate and, once in office, pursue a broader overhaul of the failed ‘war on drugs.’”