Pennsylvania legislators propose legalizing adult-use cannabis
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — Two Pennsylvania legislators have introduced a bill to legalize adult-use cannabis in the state, a move they say is 'long-awaited.'
Reps. Rick Krajewski (D-Philadelphia) and Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny) introduced House Bill 1200, which would regulate cannabis, establish Pennsylvania Cannabis Stores and a Cannabis Revenue Fund, among others.
'The time is now for Pennsylvania,' said Krajewski, who spent the last legislative session leading six hearings to study the successes and shortcomings of cannabis programs nationwide. 'We have listened carefully to public health experts, criminal justice reformers, small business advocates and community leaders. Our bill reflects what we've learned — that we can and must legalize cannabis in a way that is safe, equitable and beneficial to all Pennsylvanians.'
Lack of Senate support could again sink Shapiro's call for Pa. to legalize weed
The legislators say nearly all of Pennsylvania's neighbors are among 24 states that have legalized recreational cannabis. They say public opinion is 'overwhelmingly in support.'
'By legalizing and regulating cannabis thoughtfully, we can avoid pitfalls that have marred roll outs in other states,' Frankel said. 'Our plan will create clear rules that protect consumers, educate the public, and ensure that Pennsylvania small businesses and taxpayers – not out-of-state corporations — benefit from the profits.'
The bill, the legislators say, would automatically clear criminal records for those convicted of cannabis-related offenses, reinvest tax revenue into communities they say were harmed by the War on Drugs, implement public health protections, and more.
The House Health Committee — which Frankel chairs — is expected to take up the legislation soon.
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Twenty-six Democrats are co-sponsoring the bill.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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