HARRISBURG – Some area PA House lawmakers are speaking out against House Bill 1200, legislation that legalizes recreational marijuana in the state. Lancaster County Rep. Bryan Cutler reacted that the legislation is not just poorly written; it is a bad idea that will do more harm for the people of PA than good. In the end, Cutler said he feels this legislation is premature. Far too many concerns and questions are not answered by House Bill 1200, and it falls far short on revenue and policy. He will continue to be a “no” on this issue until these questions and concerns are answered.
Rep. Tom Jones of Lancaster & Lebanon Counties reacted that one excuse for the bill is to cover some of the reckless spending Democrats are wishing to push through in this year’s budget. Based on economic results in other states, there are serious doubts that the revenue projections from marijuana will become a reality. He added even with medical marijuana being legal in PA, it remains a federally scheduled drug. The bill would make state-run liquor stores the official retailer of marijuana in PA which would grow government and cost taxpayers a minimum of $260 million just to get up and running.
The legislation moves to the PA Senate for consideration.
REP. TOM JONES
REP. BRYAN CUTLER