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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | December 22, 2020 03:59 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Mike Regan |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Cannabis-Infused Beverages |
| In the near future, I will introduce legislation that will amend the Liquor Code with regard to cannabis-infused beverages, in the event that marijuana is in any way legalized for purposes other than medical use. My intent is not to promote legalization but rather to be proactive in our thinking as neighboring states move towards legalization and our current administration continues to advocate for it. Pennsylvania presently has a three-tier system for the distribution and sale of beer. The existing licensed independent wholesale distribution system is well-trained, efficient, and supports product diversity and consumer choice while serving the public, consumers, and the industry. With our beer wholesale distribution system, the public enjoys responsible sales and marketing of an intoxicating beverage, as well as a transparent and accountable chain of custody that protects consumers and allows for immediate recall if necessary. The strict accountability of the system also ensures the collection of all taxes due. Therefore, if there is any further legalization of cannabis, we should build on our existing asset to secure the wholesale distribution of beverage products containing it. My legislation would require any beverage that is not a product dispensed under the Medical Marijuana Act or otherwise authorized for production and sale under the Liquor Code to be distributed through our current three-tier system if the beverage is infused with cannabis. By ensuring that any changes will be done through our proven wholesale distribution system, Pennsylvania will be best suited to control the process, not the national and international companies promoting legalization. |