Marijuana Laws in the District of Columbia

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, there is a bit of a dustup over D.C.'s new
marijuana reform law. D.C. has never defied the Congress, although it
has been tempting, especially several times when the Federal Government
shut down, shutting down the District with it, although the District,
of course, is no part of these disputes.

The majority language in the appropriation bill said that the
District couldn't enact marijuana laws. The law was enacted before that
language was passed. When approved by the voters, there was nothing
further to be done. Small amounts of marijuana became legal in the
District, smoked in private. On Thursday, D.C. has taken no further
official action, and is in compliance with the law as passed by
Congress.

The most important impetus for passage by residents was two
independent studies that showed that virtually all of those who now
carry marijuana arrests are young African Americans. That was the last
straw for a substance that is de facto legal for most Americans.

D.C. passage is neutral on its face. It doesn't recommend the
substance. We ought to have the same liberty other Americans already
enjoy on this substance.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source