The Democratic-controlled House of Representatives on Friday passed sweeping legislation that would decriminalize and tax marijuana at the federal level, the first time Congress has acted on the issue.
The bill would also expunge nonviolent marijuana-related convictions.
The vote was largely along party lines – 228-164. Five Republicans and the lone independent member joined Democrats to pass the bill, and six Democrats voted no.
The bill now goes to the Republican-controlled Senate, where it is unlikely to advance.
The bill specifically adds incentives for minority-owned businesses to help them enter the cannabis market, which has exploded in recent years.
