Delegation backs protecting states on marijuana issue

Alaska’s congressional delegation is backing a bipartisan measure to protect states that have legalized marijuana, citing the matter as an issue of states rights.

The STATES (Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States) Act, to remove the threat of federal intervention and prosecution in states that regulate marijuana use and sales, was reintroduced by Senators Cory Gardner, R-CO, and Elizabeth Warren, D-MA.

The bill is a reasonable way to balance interests of states that choose to regulate use of marijuana, for medical or recreational purposes, and those that do not, said Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska. Sen. Dan Sullivan and Rep. Don Young, both R-Alaska, concurred on the issue of states rights.

The intent of the bill is to ensure that each state has the right to determine the best approach to marijuana regulation and enforcement within its borders.

STATES would amend the Controlled Substances Act so that, as long as states and tribal nations comply with a few basic protections, its provisions no longer apply to any person acting in compliance with state or tribal laws relating to the manufacture, production, possession, distribution, dispensation, administration or delivery of marijuana.

The bill would continue to apply federal criminal provisions under the CSA by prohibiting endangerment of human life while manufacturing a controlled substance, and employment of anyone under the age of 18 in marijuana operations. It would also prohibit distribution of marijuana at transportation safety facilities, including rest areas and truck stops, and bar distribution or sale of marijuana to those under age 21 except for medical purposes.

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Read the full bill at warren.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/STATES Act 116th Congress bill text.pdf.

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