Pennsylvania Moves Toward Marijuana Legalization As Fetterman, Shapiro And Others Back Cannabis Reform

Pennsylvania is edging closer to full cannabis legalization, with key lawmakers, state officials and Governor Josh Shapiro all signaling readiness for reform. The renewed push includes a bipartisan effort in the legislature, as well as a public campaign by U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), who is rallying national support for federal legalization.

Fetterman's Petition And National Push

Fetterman, a long-time proponent of cannabis reform, has launched an official petition urging federal legalization. His campaign is emphasizing the broad support for the policy and calling for congressional action. In an email blast, his team stated that he is "proud to be fighting for legal weed." The senator has remained outspoken on the issue, saying, "I might be in the Senate, but now we're still struggling and dicking around and we should just make legal weed."

State Lawmakers Signal Readiness For Reform

At the state level, lawmakers from both parties have voiced support for legalization. Senator Sharif Street (D), a long-time advocate, has expressed confidence that reform will "happen this year." Republican Senator Gene Yaw, once hesitant on the issue, recently acknowledged that prohibition has been a failure. "I don't think marijuana is any different than these other things we've regulated and taxed," he said, comparing it to alcohol and tobacco.

Agencies Preparing For Legalization

Beyond legislative support, Pennsylvania's law enforcement and health officials have indicated they are prepared to implement legalization if lawmakers act. Police and health agencies have signaled their willingness to work with the legislature and the governor's office to craft a regulatory framework.

Governor Shapiro also proposed legalizing adult-use cannabis in his latest budget, projecting $1.3 billion in new tax revenue over five years. Shapiro proposed a 20% wholesale tax on cannabis, which, when combined with other fees and taxes, could result in an effective tax rate closer to 26%, reported Marijuana Moment. This has drawn criticism from lawmakers and industry stakeholders who argue it might push consumers toward the illicit market.

The Road Ahead

With bipartisan backing, agency preparedness and public support growing, Pennsylvania appears closer than ever to joining the list of states that have embraced legal cannabis. The key remaining hurdles will be finalizing a legislative framework, securing enough votes for passage, and negotiating a tax structure that balances state revenue with competitive pricing.

Fetterman's federal push and the state's mounting momentum reflect a larger trend in U.S. cannabis policy, where resistance to legalization is gradually fading. The coming months will be critical in determining whether Pennsylvania can make good on lawmakers' predictions and deliver a regulated cannabis market by year's end.

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