Congress in DC has overridden voters, keeping marijuana illegal within the district. Early last year, district residents voted to legalize marijuana. Last Thursday, a GOP-backed ban on weed sales passed, overriding the will of the voters within the district. This ban was squeezed into an omnibus-bill, perpetually funding the government for the foreseeable future.
“It’s a shame for the citizens of D.C. I mean, there’s more and more evidence that recreational marijuana is not a good idea,” said Harris, who is also the top Republican on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration. Many oppose this statement by Harris, claiming legalized marijuana is beneficial for the community, bringing in tax dollars and other benefits.
As of right now, DC residents can legally grow and consume their own cannabis. The problem comes to buying or selling it. The way that cannabis shops get around these laws are by “gifting” weed to customers. These customers then “donate” back to the shops. This loophole has been used for quite some time now, creating a weed economy in the district without any taxes or regulations. Legalizing the sale and purchase of marijuana in DC would allow the government to collect tax money on the growing market, funding state-run programs and infrastructure.
Legalization advocates are reeling after this blow from the government, pledging to come back stronger with more signatures and votes. As of 2022, over 2/3 the voting population approves of the sale and purchase of marijuana in DC, when will the government represent the will of the people?
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