As President Donald Trump continues to weigh a marijuana rescheduling proposal, a Democratic congresswoman says there’s been more discussion among lawmakers about cannabis reform recently–adding that she’ll “continue to push for” other modest policy changes such as industry banking access.
Ilhan M. Omar (D-MN), the co-chair of Congressional Cannabis Caucus in the United States, spoke to MEDCAN24 about the recent launch of adult-use cannabis sales by non-tribal communities. She said that “there is still heavy conflict between underserved populations who are not served.” [officials are] “Still working through”
She said, “I hope that all voices are included” in the reform. My hope is that we learned all lessons in Colorado and California when crafting and debating our bill. Then I hope for a smooth roll-out which can serve as a good example.
Asked about the current status of cannabis policy talks on Capitol Hill, Omar said there’s been more conversation as Trump weighs rescheduling—a policy he endorsed on the campaign trail ahead of his second term.
It seems that he hinted to” the possibility of scheduling rescheduling.
Omar, when asked about the possibility of federal interference with Minnesota’s newly launched marijuana program, said: “I do not think there’s a major concern in this regard.”
She said, “We have been using medicinal plants for quite some time and I believe that our legalization will be a success.”
According to her, she has “travelled across the nation and met with entrepreneurs” and the marijuana banking reform federally is “the only thing they complain of.”
We’ll keep pushing for it,” said she.
The fate of cannabis reform under Trump’s GOP-controlled Congress remains unclear. Trump announced late last month the decision would be made by the Trump administration within weeks on the proposed move of cannabis from Schedule I into Schedule III under the Controlled Substance Act.
—
MEDCAN24 has been tracking the hundreds of bills relating to cannabis, psychedelics or drug policies that have passed through state legislatures as well as Congress in this past year. Patreon subscribers who donate at least $25/month have access to the interactive maps and charts, as well as our hearing calendar.
Find out more about our marijuana law tracker. To get access, become a Patreon supporter.
—
At the same time, the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, & Accountability has scheduled a hearing—titled “Invasion of the Homeland: How China is Using Illegal Marijuana to Build a Criminal Network Across America”—for Thursday.
The House Appropriations Committee passed separately last week a bill which contains provisions that prevent the Justice Department rescheduling cannabis.
Last week, House Oversight and Government Reform Committee also approved a measure to repeal Washington, D.C. laws expanding the expungement of marijuana possession.
The LCB contributed reporting from Washington, D.C.
Side Pocket Images. Image courtesy Chris Wallis.
MEDCAN24 could not exist without readers’ support. Consider a Patreon subscription if our marijuana advocacy journalism is what you use to keep informed.
