Washington D.C. Could Allow Recreational Sales

Washington D.C. has been one of the most exciting spots to watch for cannabis legalization. The city has made some very interesting decisions; from holding cannabis rallies right outside the White House, to starting up community cannabis gardens in order to help get cannabis out to the masses. Now, if a new budget proposal passes, cannabis may become legal for retail sale in the district.

According to the Sun Times, Obama has proposed a Congressional budget alteration that would rework the language currently keeping D.C. from being able to spend any money on recreational cannabis sales.

According to Marijuana Majority, as reported by the Sun Times, the new proposal’s language specifies that, “The White House budget’s language is nearly identical to current law, except that by adding the word ‘Federal’ it makes it clear the city could spend its own local funds as it sees fit.”

The new law states that, “None of the Federal funds contained in this Act may be used to enact any law, rule, or regulation to legalize or otherwise reduce penalties associated with the possession, use, or distribution of any schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 801 et seq.) or any tetrahydrocannabinols derivative for recreational purposes.”

Because the language will be changed to “none of the Federal funds” instead of “none of the funds,” D.C. will now be free to spend their money as they see fit on implementing a local recreational cannabis program.

While Obama may not sneak any serious legislation on cannabis in before his term ends, it looks like he is planning to help out where he can with a small change in wording here and there. If this proposed budget passes, our nation’s capital will have legal cannabis available for recreational sale, a landmark change for the end of prohibition.