Robert Gebelhoff’s Sept. 18 op-ed misses a critical point: Aligning federal and state laws is not about opening new markets but ensuring existing ones are safer. The bipartisan States 2.0 Act offers a pragmatic solution by allowing states to regulate cannabis as they see fit, while keeping it out of states that oppose legalization.
It’s easy to argue that our current federal posture is ineffective. Federal inaction has prompted a patchwork system that leaves public health concerns unaddressed and various legal markets inhibited. Meanwhile, the cannabis industry grows without proper oversight, exposing youths and consumers to increasing risks.
The States 2.0 Act provides the guardrails we need. By aligning federal policy with state laws, the bill allows federal resources to focus on keeping cannabis out of states where it remains illegal, while creating consistent safety standards for products in legal markets. This approach will protect our youth, improve road safety and promote effective law enforcement measures.
Vice President Kamala Harris’s “opportunity economy” agenda includes plans to grow small businesses. This bill’s taxation policy won’t tax small businesses out of existence, and it provides access to capital for small and minority-owned businesses through loans that have historically been denied to the cannabis industry.
Ms. Harris and others in Washington can take a common-sense approach. The States 2.0 Act isn’t about expanding cannabis markets; it’s about improving the system we already have, making it safer and more controlled. To the author’s point, a sensible approach to cannabis policy could present a big opportunity. The States 2.0 Act is that approach.