Lee Zeldin on Cannabis Legalization: What You Need to Know

Congressman Lee Zeldin recently introduced a bill that could significantly impact the cannabis industry. Learn more about his stance on marijuana legalization and how it could affect New Yorkers.
Lee Zeldin, a Republican congressman from New York, has been making headlines lately for his views on cannabis legalization. While many of his GOP colleagues oppose legalizing marijuana at the federal level, Zeldin has taken a different approach. He recently introduced a bill that could pave the way for more states to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use.
So, what exactly is Lee Zeldin’s stance on cannabis, and what does his bill propose? Here’s what you need to know.

Zeldin Supports States’ Rights to Legalize Cannabis

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that Lee Zeldin is not advocating for the nationwide legalization of cannabis. Instead, he is focused on empowering states to make their own decisions regarding marijuana policy.
In a statement released on his website, Zeldin explained that his bill called the States Act, “would amend the Controlled Substances Act to clarify that as long as states comply with a few basic protections, its laws that regulate the production, sale, and use of cannabis would be deemed legitimate under federal law.”

The States Act would allow states to legalize and regulate marijuana without fear of federal intervention if they met certain criteria. These criteria include prohibiting sales to minors, preventing drugged driving, and taking steps to prevent cannabis from being exported to other states where it is still illegal.

Zeldin’s bill has received support from both Democrats and Republicans and several cannabis advocacy groups. Supporters argue that the States Act would create a more consistent and predictable legal framework for the cannabis industry while respecting states’ rights.

Zeldin Sees Benefits of Legalizing Cannabis

While Lee Zeldin is not necessarily a proponent of marijuana use, he does recognize the potential benefits of legalizing cannabis. In an interview with the New York Daily News, he stated, “there is a benefit to being able to tax and regulate it, instead of having it go underground and having no idea what’s in it.”

Zeldin also noted that legalizing cannabis could help address the opioid epidemic by providing patients with an alternative pain management option. “We need to make sure people have access to treatments that work,” he said.
Finally, Zeldin sees cannabis legalization as a potential economic boon for New York and other states. “I want to see New York be able to get in on the ground floor of a new industry that could be very profitable,” he said.

What Does This Mean for New Yorkers?

If the States Act were to become law, it could majorly impact cannabis policy in New York and other states. New York has legalized cannabis for medical use, but recreational use remains illegal. However, Governor Andrew Cuomo has indicated that he supports legalizing marijuana for adult use and has included a proposal to do so in his budget plan.

If the States Act were to pass, New York could potentially move forward with legalizing and regulating cannabis without fear of federal intervention. This could lead to a significant expansion of the cannabis industry in the state, as well as increased tax revenue for the government.

Of course, there is still a long way to go before the States Act becomes law. However, Lee Zeldin’s bill represents a significant step forward for cannabis legalization advocates and could help pave the way for more states to follow in New York’s footsteps.
Conclusion:
Lee Zeldin’s recent bill, the States Act