Bill > SR68

This resolution requests the United States Congress to take three key actions regarding cannabis policy: first, remove cannabis from the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which currently classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance that makes it illegal at the federal level; second, provide support to states working to clear cannabis-related offenses from defendants' records, noting that over 2.5 million records have already been expunged or sealed since 2018; and third, facilitate full banking services for cannabis-related businesses, which currently face significant financial restrictions. The resolution highlights that 38 states and the District of Columbia have authorized medical cannabis, and 24 states have legalized non-medical adult use, creating a stark contrast with federal law. It also points out that in Hawaii alone, 6,934 adults and 3,732 juveniles were arrested for cannabis possession between 2011 and 2019, and these arrests can negatively impact individuals' ability to obtain housing and employment. The resolution further requests that Hawaii's congressional delegation transmit the full text of this resolution to key federal government officials and congressional leadership.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SR&billnumber=68&year=2025