On Monday, February 15, the House Health and Human Services Committee advanced (7-4) Rep. Javier Martinez’ HB 12, which would legalize cannabis for adult use. The bill now heads to additional committees for consideration.
Since the beginning of the legislative session in January, there have been several cannabis-related bills introduced. Just this week, the Hawaii Legislature advanced two separate measures that would expand decriminalization and legalize cannabis. S.B. 758 would increase the possession threshold to one ounce from three grams. The Senate Public Safety, Intergovernmental and Military Affairs Committee unanimously advanced S.B. 758 in a 5-0 vote.
On Tuesday, February 16, the House Judiciary Committee held a hearing on Del. Jazz Lewis’ HB 32 to legalize and regulate cannabis equitably in Maryland.
Last week, Gov. Lamont released his 2021 adult-use legalization bill. As you may recall, last year Gov. Lamont drafted a legalization bill but the effort was upended when the legislative session was suspended due to the onset of the coronavirus. Gov. Lamont’s 2021 proposal — S.B. 888 — would legalize possession of up to one and a half ounces for persons over 21, with legal sales beginning on May 2, 2022.
In a Presidents Day push, Congressional Cannabis Caucus co-chairs, Reps. Earl Blumenauer and Barbara Lee, announced they are sending a formal letter to the Biden administration requesting mass clemency for people with non-violent federal cannabis convictions.
MPP proudly commemorates Black History Month. As we honor the history and achievements of Black Americans, we must also seek to advance policies that address systemic racism and reform our criminal justice system. That includes ending cannabis prohibition.
It's time to act. Politicians in Pierre are attempting to thwart the will of the voters and gut key parts of Measure 26. We need you to join in the fight with us right now. See how you can help.
First, the good news: HB 350, the medical cannabis home cultivation bill, passed the House Health, Human Services, and Elderly Affairs Committee in an overwhelming 20-1 vote. Thanks to all who testified or signed in at the public hearing!
We need your help to protect medical marijuana in Mississippi. Last year, Mississippi voters approved Initiative 65 by a huge margin to put the state on track to establish a compassionate medical marijuana program for patients with serious health conditions.