With Pennsylvania’s budget deadline looming, Governor Josh Shapiro says he’s optimistic that lawmakers can still come together on a marijuana legalization plan.
Governor Shapiro speaking at a press conference held June 2, 2025.
In a press conference held today, Shapiro called on Senate Republicans to bring forward their own version after the chamber rejected a legalization bill passed by the House.
“We’ve had really good, honest dialogue about it,” said Shapiro, who has openly criticized the Senate for halting progress on the House’s marijuana bill. Asked whether legalization might be part of the final budget deal, he replied, “That’s my hope.”
Shapiro said Pennsylvania is falling behind as surrounding states move forward with legalization. He pointed to dispensaries just across the Maryland border that are seeing the majority of their customers come from Pennsylvania.
“We’ve got to catch up,” said Shapiro. “Instead of going and funding schools and parks and roads and bridges and mass transit in other states, I want those revenues to stay here in Pennsylvania.”
He also reiterated the importance of including social justice provisions, such as wiping clean the records of those with low-level marijuana convictions, and replacing the unregulated market with a legal system.
“I’m hopeful we’ll be able to get it done the Senate”, said Shapiro. “The House passed a measure a few weeks ago… The Senate has different ideas. They should put their ideas on the table, but we can’t cede this ground to other states. It’s time for Pennsylvania be more competitive, and I’m hopeful we’ll get this done.”
