Introduction of Sensible Enforcement of Cannabis Act

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, more than a year ago, the U.S. Department of Justice rescinded the Cole Memorandum, a directive that provided a framework for states to pursue the reasonable regulation of cannabis within their borders. The Department's ill-conceived decision adversely affects California and other states that in ``good faith'' implemented regulatory frameworks that relied on the memo.

In November 2016, the people of California spoke up and voted in favor of Proposition 64, which legalized recreational cannabis, joining the growing number of states in our nation that have legalized recreational cannabis.

To date, ten states have legalized recreational cannabis and more than 30 states--which represent more than half of the American population--permit some form of medical cannabis use. The repeal of the Cole Memo contravenes the will of the American public. Furthermore, this decision will negatively affect numerous Americans who utilize cannabis for medical purposes. We need to provide consumers, patients, businesses, and regulators with certainty.

Therefore, I am introducing the bipartisan Sensible Enforcement of Cannabis Act. This legislation will prohibit the Attorney General from prosecuting individuals for any conduct that concerns medicinal or recreational cannabis use in states in which it is legal, with narrow exceptions provided for the safety of the public.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source