Posted: | June 17, 2019 11:57 AM |
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From: | Representative Stephen McCarter |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | JSGC Resolution: Study of the State Store System for Cannabis Legalization |
Following the passage of adult use cannabis legalization in the Illinois legislature, there are now eleven states in the U.S. that have legalized adult use cannabis in addition to the 33 states that have legalized medical cannabis. Every state that has legalized has taken a unique approach to legalization in order to establish a legal cannabis system that works for its residents. In Pennsylvania, the legalization of medical cannabis through private dispensaries has greatly benefited our communities, but our state store system for distributing alcohol has also proven to be a success. If we are to legalize adult use cannabis, we will need to decide whether to sell cannabis through private stores or through a state store system. In order to make an informed decision on this important issue, we need to have comprehensive research comparing and contrasting a private system versus a state store system. For this reason, my legislation will direct the Joint State Government Committee to research the pros and cons of legalizing cannabis through a private system versus a state store system. Please join me in ensuring that Pennsylvania is able to make an informed decision regarding cannabis legalization to ensure the safety and success of our state. |