The House of Representatives passed legislation on Friday that would make marijuana legal throughout the United States, removing criminal penalties for those who produce, distribute, or possess the drug.
The Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act (or MORE Act)was passed by the House last year but did not make it through the Senate.
In addition to decriminalizing marijuana on the federal level, the bill would create processes for expunging prior convictions from people’s records. The bill would also add a tax national wide to any sales of cannabis products.
Why is Marijuana Illegal In The US?
Despite the fact that several states allow it under certain conditions, federal law makes the use, sale, and possession of cannabis with more than 0.3 percent THC unlawful in the United States.
While American Medical Association has stated that marijuana can be used for medical use, the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 effectively prohibited the use of marijuana across the country.
It was lawful for a short time in 1969, but the Controlled Substances Act made it illegal to use it again. Marijuana, along with heroin and LSD, was classed as a Schedule I drug under that law.
Where Is It Legal To Use Marijuana In The US?
You can use marijuana recreational and legally in 20 states and territories in the US. Another 37 states have passed laws legalizing the use of it medical.
What’s Next For The MORE Act?
The MORE Act was passed on a party-line vote of 220-204 in the House.
The bill now moves to the Senate, where marijuana-related legislation has typically had a difficult time passing.
