Luzerne Times

Reps. Aaron Kaufer (R-Luzerne) and Emily Kinkead (D-Allegheny) have announced their intention to introduce a comprehensive, bipartisan adult-use cannabis legalization bill in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. The proposed legislation focuses on public safety, consumer protection, social equity, and criminal justice reform.

The bill leverages Pennsylvania’s existing medical cannabis program and agricultural infrastructure to foster job creation and generate significant tax revenue for the Commonwealth. It also aims to eradicate the illicit market affecting many communities.

“This bill underscores our commitment to responsible regulation of the cannabis industry while addressing the diverse needs of Pennsylvania’s communities,” said Kaufer. “By prioritizing public safety and consumer protection, this legislation will build on the successful regulatory structure of the state’s medical cannabis program, continuing stringent standards for product quality, packaging, and labeling to ensure the well-being of all consumers.”

Kinkead emphasized the need for legalization: “It is well past time for the Commonwealth to legalize cannabis for recreational use, address the injustices of the failed War on Drugs, and ensure that Pennsylvanians can benefit from this industry in the same way our neighboring states have. Our bipartisan effort to provide specific language that takes the best practices from other states is the next substantial step in finally getting this done.”

The bill recognizes Pennsylvania’s agricultural potential by providing opportunities for farmers to participate in the legal cannabis market. Integrating cannabis cultivation into the state’s agricultural landscape aims to support local farmers and contribute to a sustainable industry.

Additionally, social equity and criminal justice reform are key components of the proposed legislation. Measures such as expungement of prior non-violent cannabis offenses and prioritizing licenses for small and minority-owned businesses aim to promote fairness within the industry.

The bill calls for a transparent system of licensing and oversight under the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. This aspect was addressed by Gov. Josh Shapiro in his 2024-25 budget address in February.