State Representative Jake Wheatley recently launched an online petition to support the legal recreational use of marijuana in the state of Pennsylvania.

By NSC Staff

On August 21, State Representative Jake Wheatley announced the launch of an online petition to support the legal sale of marijuana for recreational use in Pennsylvania. The launch comes in conjunction with his forthcoming House Bill 2600, which would also expunge the criminal records of people convicted of marijuana-related crimes considered legal if the bill is passed into law.

The petition outlines how the legal sale of marijuana in Pennsylvania would benefit the state and lists statistics showing that the prohibition of marijuana has not reduced access to it.

“It’s estimated that legalization would generate more than $580 million in annual tax revenue for Pennsylvania. That’s money to balance our budget, strengthen our economy, bolster our workforce and improve our schools,” Wheatley said.

In February 2018, marijuana became available in Pennsylvania dispensaries. Over 30,000 patients to date have registered to participate in the current medical marijuana program, obtained identification cards and are able purchase the drug. More than 700 physicians are currently approved as practitioners. The current program was signed into law in April 2016.