The landscape of drug policy in the United States is set for significant changes in 2024, with marijuana and psychedelics taking the spotlight. Advocates are leveraging momentum from local ballots to Capitol Hill, paving the way for reforms on multiple fronts. As the nation heads towards the November elections, drug policy reforms are gaining attention both through ballot initiatives and legislative efforts.
State Marijuana Legalization
With multiple attempts to legalize marijuana in the past, 2024 brings renewed hope in New Hampshire. In Pennsylvania, lawmakers are gearing up for marijuana legalization, overcoming barriers in the divided legislature. A campaign for marijuana legalization in South Dakota eyes the 2024 ballot, emphasizing volunteer-driven signature collection. After a previous setback in 2020, advocates aim for a successful campaign this time.
Despite past challenges, Nebraska activists push for medical marijuana legalization on the state ballot in 2024. In North Carolina, a Senate-passed bill for medical cannabis stalled in the House in 2023. With intentions to reintroduce the bill in 2024, advocates anticipate renewed debate. A GOP-led medical cannabis legalization bill in South Carolina is poised for consideration in the second half of the legislative session in 2024, following a procedural hurdle in the House. Wisconsin’s Republican Assembly speaker plans to introduce a limited medical cannabis bill in 2024. The proposal, focusing on serious conditions, reflects a cautious approach to medical cannabis reform.
Federal Developments
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is under scrutiny as it reviews the recommendation to move marijuana to Schedule III. The Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act, awaiting Senate consideration, remains a priority. Despite delays, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer reaffirms its importance, signaling potential progress in 2024.
California revisits psychedelics reform with a revised bill focusing on therapeutic uses. In Massachusetts, activists secured enough signatures to prompt legislative consideration of a psychedelics legalization initiative in 2024. The FDA faces a pivotal decision on the approval of MDMA as a prescription medication for PTSD treatment. Following clinical trials, the MAPS Public Benefit Corporation submitted an application, expecting a resolution in 2024.
As 2024 unfolds, drug policy reform takes center stage, offering a glimpse of transformative changes on the horizon. For more information on cannabis and food safety, reach out to PJRFSI today at [email protected].
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