Pennsylvania State Representatives Rick Krajewski (D) and Dan Frankel (D) have unveiled plans to introduce a bill that would legalize recreational marijuana, with the pair emphasizing the social justice, public health, and economic benefits.
The legislation, announced via a co-sponsorship memo published earlier today, proposes the creation of a regulated marijuana marketplace that prioritizes communities disproportionately affected by the war on drugs. According to the lawmakers, the bill aims to raise state revenue, support social equity, and incorporate robust public health measures.
Representative Krajewski, who has previously chaired five hearings on cannabis legalization, highlighted the lessons Pennsylvania can learn from other states.
“We’ve heard from public health experts, criminal justice advocates, and equity leaders across the country,” he said. “It’s time for Pennsylvania to move forward before we fall further behind.”
Rep. Frankel underscored the harm caused by marijuana prohibition, particularly in communities of color. “The criminalization of marijuana has been disastrous for Pennsylvania,” he said. “We have a moral responsibility to legalize and repair the damage caused by decades of unjust arrests.”
The proposed legislation includes provisions for expungement and restorative justice for individuals with marijuana-related convictions, community reinvestment to support areas disproportionately impacted by prohibition, and public health safeguards such as THC level limits, restrictions on predatory marketing, and measures to prevent accidental ingestion by children. Additionally, the bill aims to create opportunities for local and diverse businesses to succeed in the legal market.
“Prohibition was a racist and destructive policy that targeted Black and Brown communities,” said Rep. Krajewski. “This legislation ensures revenue from legalization is reinvested in the communities most harmed by the War on Drugs while providing relief for those still facing its consequences.”
The announcement comes just months after the introduction of House Bill 2500, a bipartisan proposal by Rep. Aaron D. Kaufer. Unlike previous efforts, H.B. 2500 focuses on taxing marijuana products to fund addiction services, recovery programs, and local law enforcement.
With this latest effort, Pennsylvania lawmakers are signaling a strong push for marijuana reform that balances economic growth with equity and public health.
