DENVER ~ Today, Governor Polis of Colorado, along with Governors J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, John Bel Edwards of Louisiana, Wes Moore of Maryland, Kathy Hochul of New York and Phil Murphy of New Jersey, sent a letter to President Biden urging the federal government to reschedule cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III. The Governors applauded the President for considering this action and expressed their hope that it will be done this year.

The letter noted that nearly 88% of Americans are in favor of legalizing cannabis for medical and recreational use and that rescheduling would rectify an outdated designation which risks small businesses and public safety. It also highlighted the success of state-regulated markets in 38 states and the potential for cannabis-related businesses to take ordinary tax deductions like any other business.

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The Governors also pointed out that regulated cannabis access sold in state-legal markets is safer than alternatives and is associated with reduced rates of opioid use and abuse; opioid-related hospitalizations, traffic fatalities, drug treatment admissions, and overdose deaths. They argued that this common-sense action will make Americans safer by providing a safe alternative to street drugs while protecting children from unsafe products.

The letter concluded by noting that there is a significant consumer demand for cannabis which will not change regardless of public policy choices made by the government. Therefore, it is sensible to make cannabis as safe as possible for adult consumers while simultaneously protecting children.

The Governors' full letter can be read here.

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