Lawmakers And Advocates React To Federal Marijuana Legalization Bill’s House Passage

The House on Friday passed a historic bill to federally legalize marijuana, eliciting cheers from pro-reform lawmakers and advocates, and scorn from opponents.

Perhaps no member is more elated than Rep. opEarl Blumenauer (D-OR), a longtime advocate who has pushed hard to get his colleagues on board and advance legalization. He said during a press briefing following the vote that the bill is “going to make a huge difference for people all across America as Congress starts to catch up to where the American public is.”

“There’s a whole range of things that the MORE Act fixes,” he said. “But most important is it stops this failed war on drugs that is so unfair to Americans of color, particularly black and brown. It will stop the federal interference with research. It’ll allow this emerging market to thrive, make it possible for more people to participate and be able to get on with their lives.”

Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA), another Congressional Cannabis Caucus co-chair, also participated in the presser and said this “really is a moment for racial justice.”

“We know that this year has put inequality and systemic racism to the forefront of our attention, and there’s no better way to close out this year than to really begin to atone for the destructive policies brought on by the failed war on drugs,” she said.

The Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act, which cleared the chamber in a decisive 228-164 vote, would federally deschedule marijuana and allow people with prior cannabis convictions to have their records expunged. Descheduling would be retroactive. It also contain provisions to tax cannabis and use the revenue to fund programs to aid people harmed by the war on drugs.

But its chances of becoming law this session are low, as the Republican-controlled Senate isn’t expected to take up the legislation before adjourning early next month. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is one of numerous GOP members who’s criticized House leadership in recent days for holding the vote in the first place.

(See Marijuana Moment’s earlier roundup of dozens of Republicans who slammed the marijuana vote this week.)

To advocates, however, this is long overdue progress on an issue that has been sidelined in Congress for years. Reactions to the vote largely differ across partisan lines, but the passage of the MORE Act has clearly captured the attention of legislators and organizations far and wide.

Here’s a roundup of what they’ve been saying about the bill’s advancement:

Supportive Lawmakers

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)

“Today, with the bipartisan MORE Act, the House has proudly passed one of the most important criminal justice reform bills in recent history. This momentous step helps end the devastating injustices of the criminalization of marijuana that have disproportionately impacted low income communities and communities of color, and reflects the overwhelming will of the American people — 47 states have recently reformed marijuana laws, with California at the helm of this justice effort.

“The MORE Act builds on these advancements and finally secures justice for those negatively impacted by the brutal, unfair consequences of criminalization. This landmark legislation will also open the doors of opportunity for all people to participate in the growing cannabis industry and provide revenue and resources to communities to grow.

“Guided by the tireless voices of advocates and young people, and the leadership of Democrats, the House has achieved an extraordinary victory for our fundamental values of justice, equality and opportunity for all. Our Majority will fight to enact this vital legislation as we work to lift up communities of color and advance progress for all.”

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD)

“Today, the House passed legislation important to Democrats’ work addressing systemic racism and reforming our criminal justice system. Millions of Americans’ lives have been upended as a result of convictions for possessing small amounts of marijuana, and the racial disparities in conviction rates for those offenses are as shocking as they are unjust. That’s why we passed the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act today, which will decriminalize cannabis possession and create a process to expunge the records of those convicted of non-violent marijuana possession in the past. As a result of those convictions, many now have difficulty finding jobs or obtaining loans, effectively excluding them from economic opportunity, which, in the context of the severe racial disparities of those convictions, represents a modern-day form of segregation.

“I want to thank Chairman Nadler of the Judiciary Committee for authoring this legislation, along with Vice President-elect Harris in the Senate, and for moving it swiftly through his committee before the end of the 116th Congress. I also want to thank Rep. Earl Blumenauer and Rep. Barbara Lee for their longtime advocacy for this type of reform. I hope the Senate will join us in passing this legislation, and I will work with Chairman Nadler, with the Congressional Black Caucus, and with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus to continue advancing measures that fix our broken criminal justice system and root out the racial injustices in policing and sentencing in our country.”

People of color are 4X more likely to be arrested for cannabis possession than White people despite equal usage.

They’re also more likely to receive longer & harsher sentences.

The MORE Act takes significant steps to right the wrongs of decades of marijuana criminalization.

— James E. Clyburn (@WhipClyburn) December 4, 2020

The MORE Act rights the wrongs of the failed and racist War on Drugs by expunging federal marijuana convictions, reinvesting in communities of color, and promoting equitable participation in the legal marijuana industry. #WeWantMORE

— House Judiciary Dems (@HouseJudiciary) December 4, 2020

I’m so proud that the MORE Act passed the House by a bipartisan vote of 228 to 164. I introduced this bill to provide restorative justice, modernize America’s cannabis laws, and deliver meaningful investments to America’s communities & small businesses.

Now, let’s make it law. pic.twitter.com/sByrmUF5ZQ

— Rep. Nadler (@RepJerryNadler) December 4, 2020

The #MOREAct will help small businesses in the cannabis sector and ensure that communities most impacted by discriminatory drug laws can benefit from this industry.

The bill is a victory for #SmallBiz and racial justice. pic.twitter.com/LbLrVJ8g4b

— House Committee on Small Business (@HouseSmallBiz) December 4, 2020

Historic day. After decades of the failed, racist War on Drugs, Congress has finally voted to legalize cannabis at the federal level & end the senseless & destructive policy of prohibition.

Thank you to the many champions in the CPC & the movement who made this vote possible. https://t.co/gGpH52lBtK

— Progressive Caucus (@USProgressives) December 4, 2020

Draconian marijuana laws contribute to racial inequality.

By passing the MORE Act:

The House just took a historic step towards finally ending the federal prohibition on marijuana, advancing criminal justice reform, and helping level the economic playing field.

— Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) December 4, 2020

I can’t praise this bill without also praising the hard work and dedication of my friend and fellow Oregonian @repblumenauer. His tireless commitment to changing our nation’s antiquated approach to marijuana will have a lasting impact for generations to come.

— Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) December 4, 2020

An overwhelming majority of Americans support ending the national prohibition on marijuana. Today’s vote in the House was a major and historic milestone in this effort. We must keep fighting until marijuana is finally legalized at the federal level. https://t.co/Uok8kP4gI1

— Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) December 4, 2020

The War on Drugs has been a war on people—unjustly targeting people of color & the poor. I applaud my House colleagues on passing this historic marijuana legislation and look forward to continuing this fight in the Senate next Congress. https://t.co/yg07oB4woD

— Sen. Cory Booker (@SenBooker) December 4, 2020

The War on Drugs has been devastating to Black and Brown communities. It’s time for it to end. I applaud the House for voting to decriminalize cannabis. The Senate should follow suit.

— Jeff Merkley (@JeffMerkley) December 4, 2020

We did it! Today’s historic passage of the MORE Act is a victory for racial justice and brings us one step closer to finally ending the war on drugs. pic.twitter.com/GkpC9Yjv8k

— Rep. Barbara Lee (@RepBarbaraLee) December 4, 2020

68% of Americans support marijuana legalization. This year, South Dakota, Arizona, Montana & New Jersey joined 11 other states in legalizing it. Yet, the federal govrnmnt still classifies pot as a dangerous drug. The Senate must listen to the American people & vote on this bill. https://t.co/6R07u35mQd

— Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@RepAOC) December 4, 2020

The #MOREAct is comprehensive legislation to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level, reassess marijuana convictions & invest in local communities. By modernizing federal cannabis policies, it will make our communities safer & better align with the will of American voters. https://t.co/muS4ekVB1e

— Rep. Ed Perlmutter (@RepPerlmutter) December 4, 2020

The federal government should not deem Marijuana illegal.

— Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) December 4, 2020

The current policy of the federal government inhibits cannabis research that could unlock cures and help people live better lives. #GaetzTakeshttps://t.co/qIoV3OhE6U

— Rep. Matt Gaetz (@RepMattGaetz) December 4, 2020

Today, I helped the House pass the most significant #cannabis reform legislation in decades – the #MOREAct. This bill isn’t perfect, but it takes important steps to safeguard our personal liberties and freedom. THREAD: pic.twitter.com/3ey5RcY0VP

— Rep. Don Young (@repdonyoung) December 4, 2020

Since Alaska legalized marijuana, I have heard from many constituents – including small business owners – who have been impacted by archaic Federal marijuana policy that criminalizes them for selling marijuana-derived products otherwise legal under state law.

— Rep. Don Young (@repdonyoung) December 4, 2020

I will continue working with my colleagues and advocates, on both sides of the aisle, to ensure that federal cannabis laws protect state-level policy making, reduce non-violent incarceration, and allow our cannabis entrepreneurs to safely bring jobs and opportunity to our state.

— Rep. Don Young (@repdonyoung) December 4, 2020

Yes, unfortunately. But those concerns are easily outweighed by the benefits of legalizing marijuana, resentencing and expunging convictions, and eliminating various collateral consequences in federal programs for marijuana convictions.

— Justin Amash (@justinamash) December 4, 2020

I just voted to end federal criminalization of marijuana, and allow expungement of many convictions.

For too long, prosecution of minor marijuana offenses led to disproportionate incarceration of Black and brown communities.

Decriminalization makes our justice system more fair. https://t.co/MPapbN1Tr8

— Adam Schiff (@RepAdamSchiff) December 4, 2020

The House just voted to federally decriminalize marijuana and expunge nonviolent federal marijuana convictions.

Don’t let anyone tell you that organizing doesn’t matter.

— Rep. Ilhan Omar (@Ilhan) December 4, 2020

Michigan overwhelmingly voted for a ballot measure to legalize marijuana. Today, Congress will do the same. I am proud to support the MORE Act to decriminalize + social justice measures that would help lift up the communities ravaged by the War on Drugs.https://t.co/BtGoxq1l68

— Rashida Tlaib (@RashidaTlaib) December 4, 2020

As co-chair of the House Addiction, Treatment, and Recovery Caucus, I have seen firsthand the social and economic injustices of our current marijuana policy and the irreparable harm it’s doing to families in Ohio and throughout our nation. (2/4)

— Congressman Tim Ryan (@RepTimRyan) December 4, 2020

If we are truly a nation that believes in second chances, our federal marijuana laws must change. I was proud to vote in favor of the MORE Act. (4/4)

— Congressman Tim Ryan (@RepTimRyan) December 4, 2020

I voted yes on the #MOREACT because as states around the nation change the way they regulate cannabis, Congress has a responsibility to restore justice to the communities most affected by the War on Drugs and ensure our policies are fair and equitable. #EndCannabisProhibition pic.twitter.com/F2OFNNij1K

— Rep. Eric Swalwell (@RepSwalwell) December 4, 2020

Proud to vote for the #MOREAct to:

– De-schedule #Cannabis
– Expunge previous offenders
– End the ban on #PellGrants, housing & #SNAP aid for those w/ #marijuana charges
#WarOnDrugs has had a disparate/devastating impact on People of Color. #WeWantMOREhttps://t.co/FbegEvz3vu

— Steve Cohen (@RepCohen) December 4, 2020

Many states like California have legalized marijuana & federal laws criminalizing it are outdated & harmful. Today the House passed the MORE Act to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level, reassess convictions & invest in local communities #WeWantMORE #EndCannabisProhibition pic.twitter.com/zAmtl25bOo

— Rep. Ted Lieu 😷 (@RepTedLieu) December 4, 2020

Spending even a dime of taxpayer’s money to investigate, prosecute and jail people for consuming a product that is less dangerous than alcohol is stupid and a waste of federal dollars. Pleased to have coauthored the #MOREAct in the Judiciary Committee and pleased it passed today. https://t.co/jd0Z6a76pt

— Ted Lieu (@tedlieu) December 4, 2020

🚨BREAKING: The House voted to end the federal prohibition on marijuana.

This legislation not only decriminalizes marijuana at the federal level, it also seeks to address the harm this federal prohibition has caused to individuals and communities across the country.

— Rep. Diana DeGette (@RepDianaDeGette) December 4, 2020

Passage of the #MOREAct comes at a critical moment, as our state faces a significant revenue shortfall caused by the pandemic. Meanwhile Maine’s recreational marijuana market yielded $1.4 million in sales in its first month, offering much-needed tax revenues to our state. https://t.co/McgopZOxeF

— Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (@chelliepingree) December 4, 2020

I’m proud that Washington led the way as one of the first two states to legalize marijuana. It’s long overdue that the federal government does the same thing.

I urge my colleagues to pass the MORE Act today.

— Rep. Pramila Jayapal (@RepJayapal) December 4, 2020

The House voted to legalize marijuana! This progress is thanks to the tireless organizing by activists and BIPOC communities who kept up the fight for justice.

Now, the Senate must act as we continue the work to END the war on drugs while achieving real, transformative change. https://t.co/dYZVFplHBv

— Rep. Pramila Jayapal (@RepJayapal) December 4, 2020

Since I’ve come to Congress, one of my top priorities has been reforming our broken criminal justice system.

Today, we took an important step in the direction of a more just system by decriminalizing marijuana.https://t.co/QDYAnP1q1f

— Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (@RepLBR) December 4, 2020

The MORE Act is not only smart policy, it is a long-overdue step towards justice.

This bill will remove marijuana from the Controlled Substances Act and apply retroactively to prior and pending marijuana-related convictions. https://t.co/oxRqTySqEr

— Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (@RepMGS) December 4, 2020

Marijuana laws are often enforced in a racially-discriminatory manner that can damage job/housing prospects & the ability to vote.

That’s why I voted to decriminalize cannabis &pass the #MOREAct.

Let’s modernize laws to end discriminatory racial bias & promote medical research. pic.twitter.com/irHImqGWlC

— US Rep Kathy Castor (@USRepKCastor) December 4, 2020

Reforming the federal laws on marijuana is long overdue. The MORE Act will right historical wrongs and move our country forward. https://t.co/Ra4RGChAYS

— Sanford Bishop, Jr. (@SanfordBishop) December 4, 2020

The House just passed the #MOREAct to end the federal ban on marijuana and allow states to set their own cannabis policies.

We can now start to reverse the harms the federal ban on cannabis has wrought upon our most vulnerable communities. #EndCannabisProhibition

— Rep. Frank Pallone (@FrankPallone) December 4, 2020

FACT: Our marijuana laws disproportionately harm individuals and communities of color, leading to convictions that damage job prospects, access to housing, and the ability to vote #WeWantMORE.

— Alcee L. Hastings (@RepHastingsFL) December 4, 2020

Federal cannabis laws are outdated. They have disproportionally targeted communities of color & kept veterans from accessing the care they need. Proud to support the MORE Act to right these wrongs. Time to #EndCannabisProhibition and allow states to follow the will of the people. pic.twitter.com/DqdI0wenMd

— Congressman Charlie Crist (@RepCharlieCrist) December 4, 2020

Proud to vote to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level, history made in the US House. #EndCannabisProhibition https://t.co/CKHPGrT0ms

— Lacy Clay MO1st (@LacyClayMO1) December 4, 2020

Today, I voted for the #MOREAct, a bill to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level. Whatever your personal views on marijuana may be, it’s clear that our current federal policies surrounding this substance are outdated and unfair.

— André Carson (@RepAndreCarson) December 4, 2020

The MORE Act will help small businesses in the cannabis industry & ensure that communities most impacted by discriminatory drug laws – specifically African Americans and Latinos as well – can benefit from this industry. This bill is a victory for #racialjustice.

— Adriano Espaillat (@RepEspaillat) December 4, 2020

It’s past time for federal law to catch up with states like Illinois that have already decriminalized marijuana. I was proud to vote in favor of the #MOREAct on the House Floor today. https://t.co/5xScsQC0Te

— Bill Foster (@RepBillFoster) December 4, 2020

Today, we took action to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level and invest in our local communities of color that have been disproportionately impacted by this prohibition for too long.

— Joe Morelle (@RepJoeMorelle) December 4, 2020

Federal laws criminalizing cannabis are outdated and harmful.

Today Congress passed the MORE Act to right the wrongs of the War on Drugs and decriminalize cannabis at the federal level.

I joined @soaznorml1 this morning to discuss. ⬇️ https://t.co/pkjZPIxl2L

— Raul M. Grijalva (@RepRaulGrijalva) December 4, 2020

Our drug policies have disproportionately targeted & incarcerated Black & Brown individuals. By decriminalizing cannabis at the fed’l level, the #MOREAct is a step in the right direction towards corrective justice & against the systemic bias in our law enforcement institutions. pic.twitter.com/JRxWJHW4LU

— Congressman Chuy García (@RepChuyGarcia) December 4, 2020

Under stop and frisk, Black and brown people faced unprecedented harassment from law enforcement using marijuana as a scapegoat. Our communities have been overpoliced and needlessly incarcerated because of marijuana. Today we take a historic step in the right direction. https://t.co/gJ5EA4fmrQ

— Yvette D. Clarke (@RepYvetteClarke) December 4, 2020

As we continue to fight this public health & economic crisis, we must confront systemic racism that hurts far too many Americans.

People of color are 4x more likely to be arrested for cannabis offenses, despite equal use.

The #MOREAct works to correct those injustices. https://t.co/Nd0sYHym4P

— Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (@RepDMP) December 4, 2020

I voted today for the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act: a bill to decriminalize #marijuana at the federal level, expunge marijuana convictions, invest in local communities, and allow states to establish their own marijuana regulations.#WeWantMORE Act

— Mike Doyle (@USRepMikeDoyle) December 4, 2020

Reversing the harm caused by the war on drugs is among the defining civil rights issues of our time.

Today I proudly cast my vote for the #MOREAct to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level.

— Rep. Gerry Connolly (@GerryConnolly) December 4, 2020

I just voted for the MORE Act to decriminalize marijuana. It’s easy to joke, but we’re losing billions to keep it illegal. Plus, the bill could delete criminal offenses for thousands of American Blacks and Latinos who received unfair sentences. This bill is LONG overdue!! pic.twitter.com/60p2KX4uBP

— Rep. Donald Payne Jr (@RepDonaldPayne) December 4, 2020

The House just passed the #MOREAct to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level, allowing states to set their own policies. Federal cannabis policies have been rooted in the past for far too long – this bill will help ensure that our policies are fair, equitable and inclusive. pic.twitter.com/pZUMzYP0yX

— Rep. Adam Smith (@RepAdamSmith) December 4, 2020

The House passed the MORE Act today, which would decriminalize marijuana at the federal level, let states like WA have jurisdiction over their own laws, and invest in communities disproportionately harmed by the war on drugs. #WeWantMORE pic.twitter.com/f951PMv6Zk

— Rep. Suzan DelBene (@RepDelBene) December 4, 2020

Today the House is voting on the most significant marijuana reform legislation in a generation. I’m excited to pass the MORE Act, end a dark chapter of the harmful War on Drugs, and develop new economic opportunities. #MOREAct

— Rep. Andy Levin (@RepAndyLevin) December 4, 2020

Passed! Now, let’s make cannabis decriminalization the law of the land. #EndCannabisProhibition #MOREAct #WeWantMore https://t.co/lNgx2RzLC1 pic.twitter.com/PKffTEzDBR

— Katherine Clark (@RepKClark) December 4, 2020

Just voted for the #MOREAct, which legalizes marijuana at the federal level & expunges non-violent drug convictions.

The war on drugs was a failure. I’m proud to support this bill, which reverses discriminatory policies & allows for a well-regulated industry to grow our economy.

— Rep. Salud Carbajal (@RepCarbajal) December 4, 2020

Today the House passed the MORE Act to #EndCannabisProhibition. The bill protects patients in the 36 states where cannabis is legal for medical use & helps end disparities in incarceration rates.

— Rep. Betty McCollum (@BettyMcCollum04) December 4, 2020

Today I voted YES on the #MOREAct. This bill eliminates conflict between federal law and the states, like NV, that have sought to legalize and regulate marijuana. It decriminalizes marijuana at the fed level and allows states to set their own policies without intervention. 1/3

— Rep. Steven Horsford (@RepHorsford) December 4, 2020

Today, I voted for #TheMOREAct which would legalize marijuana on a federal level, erase records of prior marijuana convictions, and ensure the communities who have been disproportionately harmed would also be included in the benefits of this industry. pic.twitter.com/IHfyuDg4WZ

— Jahana Hayes (@RepJahanaHayes) December 4, 2020

Today I voted to decriminalize marijuana, expunge non-violent federal marijuana convictions, and take a real step forward for criminal justice reform. The MORE Act PASSED in the House. Looking forward to more progress on this front in Virginia in 2021! https://t.co/xSzmkJjc5s

— Rep. Don Beyer (@RepDonBeyer) December 4, 2020

Today I’m voting to pass the #MOREAct to federally #EndCannabisProhibition. This historic bill represents a critical #RacialJustice issue. 43% of drug arrests are for cannabis. Black Americans are 3.6x more likely to be arrested than white Americans.(1/4)https://t.co/cOn3VhwHee

— Rep. Jimmy Gomez (@RepJimmyGomez) December 4, 2020

Today’s vote for the #MOREAct is an important step to include racial, social, & economic justice in the conversation around cannabis legalization. It’s essential we restore the rights of those who’ve been unfairly impacted by criminalization as we #EndCannabisProhibition. pic.twitter.com/EBXnsU1VvA

— Rep. Jared Huffman (@RepHuffman) December 4, 2020

I support ending the federal prohibition of marijuana. Pass it on. #EndCannabisProhibition

— Jan Schakowsky (@janschakowsky) December 4, 2020

The War on Drugs is rooted in racism & inequality.

A person of color is 4x more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than a white person, despite EQUAL use rate.

The #MOREAct will begin to chip away at the injustices of the War on Drugs by decriminalizing marijuana.

— Rep. Ted Deutch (@RepTedDeutch) December 4, 2020

Today, I will be voting to decriminalize marijuana on the federal level.
Across the country, from New Jersey to Montana, Mississippi to South Dakota, the people spoken at the polls: we must end the War on Drugs which has devastated so many communities. https://t.co/jique3G1iz

— Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (@RepBonnie) December 4, 2020

The criminalization of marijuana has been used to disenfranchise an entire generation of Black men and women. The More Act is an important step forward towards more enlightened policy #WeWantMORE#EndCannabisProhibition pic.twitter.com/F4fXWuQCXS

— Rep. Hank Johnson (@RepHankJohnson) December 4, 2020

If we are serious about criminal justice reform, we must end the federal prohibition on cannabis and expunge low-level convictions that disproportionately harm communities of color!

Thank you, @RepJerryNadler and VP-elect @KamalaHarris for your leadership on this issue. #MOREAct pic.twitter.com/v4FdG2IIzc

— Carolyn B. Maloney (@RepMaloney) December 4, 2020

“We have the opportunity here to start righting our wrongs. The MORE Act is more than a marijuana bill – it’s a sweeping effort to bring equity to our criminal justice system.” pic.twitter.com/XDJWVAllQr

— Congresswoman Madeleine Dean (@RepDean) December 4, 2020

In honor of the #MOREAct House vote, I’m sharing this video from a hearing earlier this year where I highlighted the unfair marijuana laws of our country. https://t.co/vkTGVQ2T3t

— Rep. Tony Cárdenas (@RepCardenas) December 4, 2020

Supporting the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act is a leap towards justice. Our marijuana laws disproportionately harm individuals of color, leading to convictions that damage job prospects, access to housing & the ability to vote. #MOREAct

— Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (@RepKirkpatrick) December 4, 2020

Our cannabis policies have been rooted in the past for far too long. 47 states have modernized their laws. Now it’s Congress’s job to do the same. The fact is individuals & communities of color are disproportionately harmed by these policies. 🧵#EndCannabisProhibition #WeWantMORE

— Katherine Clark (@RepKClark) December 4, 2020

Our nation’s broken marijuana laws have unfairly targeted Black and Brown people and barred critical research. Proud to join my House colleagues today in passing the MORE Act to decriminalize marijuana & right the wrongs of our past.
https://t.co/KxqBmCRNZE

— Rep. Debbie **Wear A Mask** Dingell (@RepDebDingell) December 4, 2020

I support ending the federal prohibition of marijuana. Pass it on. #EndCannabisProhibition https://t.co/r4Ie3FVioe

— Bill Foster (@RepBillFoster) December 4, 2020

Oh it’s getting exciting…taking the third vote in support of #decriminalization of cannabis #justicereform #mmj pic.twitter.com/87FpFgdLWy

— Kwanza Hall (@kwanzahall) December 4, 2020

God is good!! I just voted yes on HR 3884 the #MOREAct Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment And Expungement Act thx @KamalaHarris pic.twitter.com/MRC1q4zouT

— Kwanza Hall (@kwanzahall) December 4, 2020

I just voted to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level.

It’s about damn time we #EndCannabisProhibition.

— Rep. Harley Rouda (@RepHarley) December 4, 2020

I just voted for historic bipartisan legislation—which passed the House—to decriminalize cannabis at the federal level, while also giving Florida & other states the flexibility to enact cannabis laws that reflect the views of their residents. #FlaPol #FL07

— Rep. Stephanie Murphy (@RepStephMurphy) December 4, 2020

The “War on Drugs” is an abject failure that has left a harmful legacy in its wake.

Today, I voted for the MORE Act, which would begin to address the disproportionate harm that federal marijuana policy has had on Black & brown communities. #EndCannabisProhibition

— Rep. David E. Price (@RepDavidEPrice) December 4, 2020

We just passed the #MOREAct—a long overdue referendum on the racist, failed War on Drugs.

It decriminalizes marijuana, expunges marijuana convictions & invests in communities disproportionately harmed by punitive & racist drug laws.

Cannabis is not a criminal justice issue.

— Rep. Mark Pocan (@repmarkpocan) December 4, 2020

Florida voters already legalized medical marijuana, and other states now have adult use. It’s time to remove the federal criminal prohibitions against marijuana. That’s why today, I cast a vote for the #WeWantMORE Act! #EndCannabisProhibition pic.twitter.com/p2ZOBasTfS

— US Rep. Darren Soto (@RepDarrenSoto) December 4, 2020

The House just voted to decriminalize marijuana! I co-sponsored the bipartisan MORE Act because it reforms our nation’s drug laws which have disproportionately targeted communities of color.

Now it’s time for the Senate to puff, puff, pass this bill.

— Dina Titus (@repdinatitus) December 4, 2020

Today I was proud to support the #MOREAct and decriminalize marijuana at the federal level. Our federal marijuana laws are outdated, ineffective and inherently biased against black and brown citizens.

Now it’s time for South Carolina to do the same. pic.twitter.com/1C2KF7hQtE

— Joe Cunningham (@JoeCunninghamSC) December 4, 2020

I just voted to pass the MORE Act to federally decriminalize marijuana.

This bill also addresses injustices of criminalization by providing for the expungement of federal marijuana convictions and creating reinvestment programs to support those impacted. https://t.co/jWwGsE0DTi

— Rep. Jennifer Wexton (@RepWexton) December 4, 2020

I am pleased to vote for the MORE Act to bring much-overdue changes to outdated marijuana laws. This historic reform package would begin repairing the harm these archaic laws caused communities of color and allow states to regulate marijuana responsibly.https://t.co/Q66CqzxhzZ

— Rep. Elaine Luria (@RepElaineLuria) December 4, 2020

–disproportionate rate for marijuana-related offenses; clear the way for patients to more readily obtain medical cannabis treatments; and ensure that the cannabis market will be an equal-opportunity industry moving forward.#EndCannabisProhibition

— Rep. Brendan Boyle (@CongBoyle) December 4, 2020

This critical bill rights the wrongs of the failed and racist War on Drugs by expunging federal marijuana convictions, reinvesting in communities of color, and promoting equitable participation in the legal marijuana industry. #WeWantMORE

— Rep. Donald McEachin (@RepMcEachin) December 4, 2020

I voted to decriminalize marijuana and expunge federal convictions — a historic step toward criminal justice reform.

New revenue will also be reinvested in communities ravaged by the war on drugs. https://t.co/ECuFA5AZ4M

— Joaquin Castro (@JoaquinCastrotx) December 4, 2020

Opposing Lawmakers

A great illustration of the gap in priorities:
While Republicans are continuing to negotiate on COVID relief, Democrats are holding votes on a Tiger King bill & legalizing cannabis.
Let’s get serious & do our job for Americans.

— Senator John Thune (@SenJohnThune) December 4, 2020

I opposed this bill from House Democrats to decriminalize marijuana at the national level.

— Rep Andy Biggs (@RepAndyBiggsAZ) December 4, 2020

Instead of providing financial relief to hurting Americans, @SpeakerPelosi thinks it’s a perfect time to legalize pot.

We need to prioritize the needs of the American people, NOT Cheech and Chong. pic.twitter.com/pAbKnwur2H

— Greg Murphy (@RepGregMurphy) December 3, 2020

Just like “Defund the Police” led to crime rises, Dems’ rush to legalize marijuana w/out concern for rising epidemic of drugged driving would mean more dead & injured Americans. 
 
Another wayward effort by Dems that could cost your family it’s safety. pic.twitter.com/FItgjGgxLv

— Rep. Dan Bishop (@RepDanBishop) December 4, 2020

ICYMI: Democrats not only wasted valuable time this week on big cats and cannabis, but they also blocked @RepRobWoodall and @RepSteveChabot‘s request to reopen the PPP for the millions of small businesses in American struggling right now. Their actions speak volumes. https://t.co/SbgwMd7jNU

— U.S. Rep. Billy Long (@USRepLong) December 4, 2020

Speaker Pelosi today admitted that she held up COVID relief until after the election. And yet even after, her priorities in the House this week were legal marijuana and Tiger King bills??? #Shameful #doyourjob https://t.co/Jod55ftKuz

— Rep. Andy Harris, MD (@RepAndyHarrisMD) December 4, 2020

The story of the 116th Congress under Nancy Pelosi: Legislation by Netflix. #TigerKing #Marijuana

— Rep. Doug Collins (@RepDougCollins) December 4, 2020

It’s sad that Speaker Pelosi prioritized #WeedOverWorkers today by passing a marijuana legalization bill instead of COVID-19 relief for struggling Americans. pic.twitter.com/BUjzRFCLsC

— Congressman Ben Cline (@RepBenCline) December 4, 2020

During a public health emergency Congress should especially prioritize American families over the marijuana industry. https://t.co/5bTJoCqVxY

— Michael Burgess, MD (@michaelcburgess) December 4, 2020

Today I voted NO on legislation that would legalize marijuana. It is reprehensible that Speaker Pelosi’s House is squandering time on out-of-touch priorities while PA families, workers, farmers, & #smallbiz are enduring unprecedented challenges during this pandemic.

— John Joyce (@RepJohnJoyce) December 4, 2020

The Speaker of the House prioritized marijuana over providing aid to help the American people struggling to make ends meet as a result of COVID-19.

This is ridiculous.

We need leaders that are serious about serving the American people, not petty politicians. pic.twitter.com/RFEVXMdfU3

— Bill Johnson (@RepBillJohnson) December 4, 2020

Speaker Pelosi and her shrinking majority ignored the plight of Americans dealing with the impact of COVID-19. Instead, they used the time to promote the legalization of cannabis among other issues not of any pressing urgency. It’s as if they’re tone-deaf. https://t.co/lSQEu5JcNg pic.twitter.com/u2Zgf4E7BE

— Rep. Steve Womack (@rep_stevewomack) December 4, 2020

Small businesses are struggling. There will be Americans who have to close their business in the midst of the holiday season because the Democrats are playing politics.

Pelosi found time to pass a marijuana bill today but not to help American small businesses.

Shameful. https://t.co/XUdQ1vsXx8

— Chuck Fleischmann (@RepChuck) December 4, 2020

This critical bill rights the wrongs of the failed and racist War on Drugs by expunging federal marijuana convictions, reinvesting in communities of color, and promoting equitable participation in the legal marijuana industry. #WeWantMOREhttps://t.co/tZxV5URgGy

— Rep. Veronica Escobar (@RepEscobar) December 4, 2020

In her own words.

It was a pointed decision to block coronavirus relief. She held up meaningful negotiations for leverage.

Now, House Dems prioritize a pot bill. Jobs are being lost. Families are struggling. And their priority today is marijuana? Americans deserve better. https://t.co/SEjlkGnPb7

— Rep. Steve Womack (@rep_stevewomack) December 4, 2020

By contrast, House Democrats took no legislative action this week to join @HouseGOP in supporting H.R. 8265, legislation that would deliver the $138 billion in remaining Paycheck Protection Program funds to American families, small businesses, and workers. (2/2)

— Congressman Fred Keller (@RepFredKeller) December 4, 2020

As a former U.S. Attorney, I have witnessed firsthand how narcotics like marijuana lead to further addiction and plague our communities. The MORE Act would only encourage more reckless use of the drug and undermine our law enforcement.https://t.co/d8DGvABW9Z

— Rep. David Kustoff (@RepDavidKustoff) December 4, 2020

Other Politicians

✅ Legalize marijuana
✅ Launch the Marijuana Justice Initiative
✅ Vacate prior convictions
✅ Raise revenue from the sale and invest it back into our communities

That’s what we have done in Washington.

I’m glad similar legislation passed the U.S. House today. https://t.co/kqhIykmHxS

— Governor Jay Inslee (@GovInslee) December 4, 2020

State’s Attorney Mosby Applauds Passage of Landmark Federal Marijuana Legalization Bill #MOREAct https://t.co/760Xw3oLfe pic.twitter.com/hIe6EqzItm

— Baltimore SAO (@BaltimoreSAO) December 4, 2020

Today’s historic #MOREAct vote marks our nation’s progress as states – and now Congress – recognize the urgent need to end the federal government’s misguided #cannabis prohibition, and begin to right the wrongs of the War on Drugs and its damage to communities of color.

— Commissioner Nikki Fried (@NikkiFriedFL) December 4, 2020

A historic vote that seemed impossible just a few years ago. This bill would decriminalize marijuana and expunge federal marijuana conviction records.

If you believe in legislation like this, help us take back the Senate and get this bill on the books. https://t.co/BnVN3VULKk

— Julián Castro (@JulianCastro) December 4, 2020

The House voted to decriminalize cannabis, expunge records, & repair damage caused to Black & brown communities by the War on Drugs.

Every single state (even Red ones) that had a cannabis reform ballot measure passed it.

The progressive agenda can win with bipartisan support.

— Cori Bush (@CoriBush) December 4, 2020

Advocacy Organizations

The MORE Act is the most comprehensive marijuana reform bill in Congress. Guided by reparative and social justice principles, it would decriminalize marijuana, expunge prior marijuana convictions, and invest in communities that have been targeted for 50 years by the war on drugs.

— ACLU (@ACLU) December 4, 2020

We’ll also be scoring how legislators vote with our scorecard. Keep track of whether your representatives vote for racial justice and criminal legal reform here ⬇️ https://t.co/0UIAKULceX

— ACLU (@ACLU) December 4, 2020

We. Did. It.

The MORE Act has passed the House to #EndCannabisProhibition

50 years in the making. pic.twitter.com/yJ1V7tPiKK

— NORML (@NORML) December 4, 2020

Today’s vote marks a historic victory for the marijuana policy reform movement. If enacted, the MORE Act would end the war on cannabis at the federal level by removing it from the Controlled Substances Act and ending criminal penalties under federal law. https://t.co/NlJa0p0l5d

— Marijuana Policy Project (@MarijuanaPolicy) December 4, 2020

📰PRESS RELEASE: In historic vote, house passes far-reaching marijuana reform! 228-164 #MOREAct https://t.co/10W862mqeY

— Drug Policy Alliance (@DrugPolicyOrg) December 4, 2020

Today we made history, but we still have much to do! Will you join us?#MOREActhttps://t.co/rc5QWQq5cT pic.twitter.com/OAp4NLBm8n

— National Cannabis Industry Association (@NCIAorg) December 4, 2020

Read NCR’s statement on the historic passage of the #MOREAct: https://t.co/UKjupCpEl6

— National Cannabis Roundtable (@FollowNCR) December 4, 2020

“If Congress continues to block good measures like the STATES Act, which simply removes cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act, they will eventually get stuck with something like the MORE Act,” writes CEI’s @michelleminton https://t.co/W3vABritIG

— Competitive Enterprise Institute (@ceidotorg) December 4, 2020

BREAKING: The House just passed a bill to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level. A historic moment. pic.twitter.com/OIabz29ydv

— Public Citizen (@Public_Citizen) December 4, 2020

National President @PYoes sent a letter to House leadership urging them to vote against H.R. 3884, the “Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act,” which would effectively decriminalize marijuana. pic.twitter.com/pL9Nl8Fztl

— National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) (@GLFOP) December 4, 2020

The U.S. House passed the MORE Act, a bill to legalize marijuana.

Notably, more Democrats opposed the bill than Republicans supported it.

The bill faces virtually zero support in Senate & White House.

Statement from SAM President @KevinSabet: pic.twitter.com/SzcioLeej1

— SAM (@learnaboutsam) December 4, 2020

Photo courtesy of Jurassic Blueberries.