Federal Restrictions on Cannabis Sales in Washington

LOS ANGELES- A coalition of Republican lawmakers and Washington, D.C. officials is advocating for the removal of federal restrictions that prevent the District from regulating and taxing cannabis sales. During a recent House Appropriations subcommittee hearing, Chairman Dave Joyce (R-OH) expressed opposition to the longstanding appropriations rider that prohibits D.C. from using local funds to establish a commercial cannabis market, despite voter approval for legalization a decade ago.

Chairman Joyce, who also co-chairs the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, acknowledged that some members are interested in reviewing and potentially modifying this provision to enhance public safety in the District. D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) described the rider as one of the “most damaging” infringements on the District’s autonomy, noting that it has led to a black market estimated at over $600 million annually.

The federal prohibition has resulted in the proliferation of unregulated “gifting” shops, which operate in a legal gray area by offering cannabis as a gift with the purchase of other items. These establishments have raised public safety concerns due to their cash-only operations and the potential sale of untested products. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) emphasized the risks associated with unregulated cannabis products, stating that some have been found to contain harmful substances.

The ongoing debate highlights the tension between federal authority and local governance in Washington, D.C. Advocates for lifting the ban argue that allowing the District to regulate cannabis sales would promote public safety and generate tax revenue. However, the rider remains a contentious issue, reflecting broader national debates over cannabis policy and states’ rights.