Federal legislation that would allow those in public housing to use marijuana without fear of eviction if they are following state law has gained a new legislative sponsor.
The Marijuana in Federally Assisted Housing Parity Act was introduced last month in the United States House of Representatives and Senate by Congressmember Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). Yesterday, Congressmember Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) became the third sponsor of the House version of the bill. Blumenauer joins Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) as the bill’s cosponsor.
If passed into law, the measure would allow the use of marijuana in federally assisted housing, including public housing and Section 8 housing, if the consumer is in compliance with state marijuana laws.
“Individuals living in federally funded housing should not fear eviction simply for treating their medical conditions or for seeking a substance legal in their state,” Rep. Norton said when announcing the measure. “Increasingly, Americans are changing their views on marijuana, and it is time that Congress caught up with its own constituents. With so many states improving their laws, this issue should have broad bipartisan appeal because it protects states’ rights.”
“This legislation challenges the discriminatory practices that still negatively impact tenants in federal housing programs, and ensures that personal choices made in accordance with state law are protected,” said Senator Booker. “No one should face eviction or be denied housing for legally using marijuana or treating a medical condition in states where it is permitted.”
The House version of the measure is House Bill 7094, while the Senate version if Senate Bill 3671.
