Washington, D.C. – Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chairs Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Congressman Mark Pocan (WI-02) released the following statement celebrating the passage of the MORE Act:
“It is a historic day for Congress and the nation. After decades of the failed, racist War on Drugs, Congress has finally voted to legalize marijuana at the federal level and end the senseless policy of prohibition that has destroyed so many lives.
“Passage of the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment & Expungement (MORE) Act is critical to beginning to repair the damage caused by decades of prohibition and criminalization. While this bill cannot turn back the clock or heal the pain caused by these racist policies, it is an important step for racial justice and begins the work of building a safe and equitable industry. Moving forward, we must also direct dedicated federal resources to reinvest in the communities hollowed out by the War on Drugs and give people the opportunity and resources they need to rebuild their lives. Already, 31 states and D.C. have either legalized or decriminalized recreational marijuana use – including four new states in 2020 alone. With today’s vote, Congress is sending a message loud and clear that the days of marijuana prohibition are numbered.”
###
