Pennsylvania Black Legislators Demand Equity in Legalization

As Pennsylvania moves closer to potentially legalizing cannabis, members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus (PLBC) are emphasizing the need for equity in the legislation. Their call for justice and fairness in the cannabis industry seeks to rectify the disproportionate impact of past cannabis laws on Black and Brown communities. This article delves into their demands and the broader implications for social equity in the state.

A Call for Justice

In a press conference at the Capitol rotunda in Harrisburg, the PLBC underscored the importance of including expungement provisions for those with cannabis-related criminal records. Democratic Rep. Napoleon Nelson, chair of the caucus, stated, “The Legislative Black Caucus will not accept the advancement of an adult-use program that still holds incarcerated individuals that have previously been convicted for cannabis activity.” Nelson’s proposal also includes pathways to resentencing, the return of assets seized during cannabis-related arrests, and compensation for those incarcerated under marijuana possession laws.

Establishing Social Equity

Nelson has called for the creation of an Office of Social Equity, which would oversee a Cannabis Development Fund. This fund, supported by state tax revenue from legalized cannabis and licensing fees, aims to provide grants and low-interest loans to individuals entering the cannabis industry. The goal is to ensure that those historically marginalized by cannabis laws have a fair chance to participate in the legal market.

Licensing for Social Equity

Several state representatives from the caucus highlighted the need for a significant portion of cannabis licenses to be allocated to social equity licensees. These licenses would prioritize individuals previously charged with cannabis offenses or those residing in communities heavily impacted by cannabis convictions. Philadelphia State Senator Sharif Street emphasized, “We want to make sure those folks can benefit from a legal cannabis market…get licenses, be grower-processors, but to also own dispensaries.”

Rectifying Historical Wrongs

Rep. Amen Brown and Rep. Chris Rabb echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of addressing social inequities and historical injustices. “It’s about writing historical wrongs and addressing social inequities,” Brown stated. Rabb added, “We’re in a commonwealth that has a number of dispensaries, I believe none of which are owned by Black folk.”

Support from Industry Leaders

The push for equity measures also garnered support from key industry figures. Meredith Buettner, executive director of the Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition, expressed optimism about the inclusion of the PLBC’s priorities in upcoming legislation. “Our coalition stands to work with all these folks behind me in ensuring their priorities are included in a lot of the existing legislation that’s already on the table,” Buettner said.

The Path Forward

In April, the House Subcommittee on Health Care held a hearing that supported the inclusion of social equity measures, including expungement, in cannabis legislation. A 2022 CBS News poll revealed that 66% of registered voters in Pennsylvania favored legalizing marijuana, highlighting strong public support for this issue.

Conclusion

With neighboring states, except West Virginia, already having legalized cannabis, Pennsylvania stands on the cusp of significant legislative change. Governor Shapiro has noted that legalizing cannabis could generate $250 million in tax revenue. As the 2023-24 legislative session progresses, the voices of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus will be crucial in shaping a fair and equitable cannabis market.