The Pennsylvania House of Representatives has given approval to House Bill 1200, advancing legislation that would legalize marijuana for adult use. The vote was 102 to 101.
The bill received its second reading vote today following its passage out of the House Health Committee yesterday. It now moves to a third and final reading, expected to take place as soon as this week. Once approved through its third reading, it will be sent to the state’s Senate.
Filed just two ago by a bipartisan group of 27 lawmakers, HB 1200 would allow adults 21 and older to purchase marijuana and marijuana products from retailers licensed by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. The system would follow the model used for liquor sales, with the creation of Pennsylvania Cannabis Stores. Adults would also be allowed to grow up to two mature and two immature marijuana plants at home.
The bill proposes a 12% tax on marijuana products and a 6% tax on accessories, with revenue directed to funds supporting community reinvestment, substance use treatment, and cannabis regulation.
HB 1200 includes provisions for automatic expungement of certain marijuana convictions and emphasizes equity for communities disproportionately impacted by prohibition. It also sets guidelines for product packaging, advertising, and lab testing.
Prior to the House’s vote on the bill, they rejected an amendment that would have allowed cities to opt out of allowing cannabis stores, with the vote being 101 to 102. As it stands, HB 1200 does not allow entire cities to prohibit state-licensed cannabis stores.
Although he hasn’t made comments on this particular measure, Governor Josh Shapiro has expressed strong support for legalization, reiterating his stance during his February budget address. The proposal’s fate remains uncertain in the Senate. In that chamber, Republicans are in control 27 to 23.
If enacted, Pennsylvania would become the 25th state to legalize recreational marijuana.
