March 7, 2024
CPEAR: “Congress Must Address Cannabis Reform Without Delay”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, the Coalition for Cannabis Policy, Education, and Regulation (CPEAR) issued a statement following President Biden’s State of the Union Address:
“Tonight marked a historic moment as the President of the United States addressed cannabis reform in the annual State of the Union address for the first time,” said Andrew Freedman, executive director of CPEAR. “Let’s be clear, it is far past time for Washington’s policymakers to acknowledge states have taken the lead on cannabis policy in the absence of federal action. We applaud President Biden’s recent actions, including his pardon proclamation and support for rescheduling cannabis. However, there is still work to be done.
“With a majority of Americans living in states with legal adult-use cannabis and widespread support for decriminalization, Congress must address this issue without delay. The time for comprehensive federal cannabis policy, such as the STATES Act, is now, and we stand ready to collaborate with Congress and the Administration to make meaningful progress.”
As the decision on cannabis rescheduling is imminent, we welcome the President’s encouragement to get this across the finish line. In December of 2023, CPEAR endorsed the bipartisan introduction of the Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States (STATES) Act. This legislation would aid states that have decided to legalize medicinal and adult-use cannabis while protecting states that have decided to keep cannabis prohibited.
Read more about the STATES Act here.
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About the Coalition for Cannabis Policy, Education, and Regulation
A 501(c)(4) non-profit organization, the Coalition for Cannabis Policy, Education, and Regulation (CPEAR) works to advance comprehensive policy solutions for cannabis legalization and regulation. The Coalition strives to be a trusted, science-driven resource for lawmakers and the larger stakeholder community, developing responsible policies that provide access to cannabis while protecting consumers and patients, barring underage use, upholding public health and safety, and promoting social equity. Comprised of a diverse group of stakeholders, the Coalition brings unique perspectives to the table to thoughtfully address what a national, legal cannabis industry should look like. To learn more, visit www.CPEAR.org and follow us on Twitter.