Federal Bill Would Withhold Funds from Tribes and States that Legalize Adult-Use Cannabis

U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-NC) last week introduced legislation to withhold some federal funds from states and tribes that allow adult cannabis use. Under the Stop Pot Act, states and tribes that legalize or have legalized cannabis for adult use would have 10% of federal highway funds frozen.

The action would not apply to states and tribes that legalize or have legalized cannabis for medical use.

“The laws of any government should not infringe on the overall laws of our nation, and federal funds should not be awarded to jurisdictions that willfully ignore federal law. During a time when our communities are seeing unprecedented crime, drug addiction, and mental illness, the Stop Pot Act will help prevent even greater access to drugs and ease the strain placed on our local law enforcement and mental health professionals who are already stretched thin.” — Edwards in a press release

The bill is backed by Smart Approaches to Marijuana Action and the Christian Action League.

The measure comes as the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, which are based in Edwards’ home state, will vote this week on allowing the sale and adult use of cannabis on their tribal lands. If approved, lands owned by the tribe would be the only place in North Carolina to buy cannabis legally.