John,

We wrote to you earlier this week to let you know, “It’s ‘go time’ in Congress.”

We weren’t kidding.

On Wednesday, members of the US House of Representatives, Oversight and Accountability Committee voted 30 to 14 in favor of bipartisan, NORML-endorsed legislation – the Cannabis Users’ Restoration and Eligibility (CURE) Act – which expands federal employment and advancement opportunities for those with a history of cannabis use.

NORML backs the CURE Act because it acknowledges the reality that millions of Americans have experience with cannabis and should not be denied the opportunity to positively contribute to our federal workforce.

But that’s not all.

On Wednesday, September 27, members of the Senate Banking Committee are expected – for the first time – to vote on legislation allowing banks and other financial institutions to explicitly work with state-licensed cannabis businesses. The lack of access to adequate financial services and traditional lending creates serious challenges that disproportionately impact smaller businesses and endanger customers and employees. Only federal reform can address this situation.

But wait, there’s more.

This week, Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), along with 33 co-sponsors, reintroduced the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment, and Expungement (MORE) Act. NORML has long been an advocate of the MORE Act because it removes cannabis from the federal Controlled Substances Act — thus ending the state/federal conflict in cannabis policy. It also provides relief for those with past marijuana convictions. To date, it is the only cannabis descheduling bill to ever be advanced by the lower chamber of Congress (twice!).

We’re excited. Are you?

If so, chip in today to help amplify our advocacy in Congress. NORML is working closely with the sponsors of numerous pieces of marijuana legislation to ensure that these bills are impactful and consumer-friendly. As the nation’s only advocacy organization that focuses solely on the rights of responsible consumers, it is pivotal that our voice continues to be heard.

Big things are happening. Help us keep the momentum going.

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