John, The US House just made history by passing the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment & Expungement (MORE) Act by a vote of 228-164: the first time legislation de-scheduling marijuana has
ever been voted on and approved in Congress. The MORE Act, if enacted, would federally decriminalize marijuana -- protecting states’ rights, working to repair the harms created by bad policy, expunging marijuana convictions, and investing in communities disproportionately targeted by the War on Drugs. While the bill must still pass the Senate, this is a truly historic victory for drug policy reform. A year ago, I advocated for the MORE Act at a press conference held by Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, representing LEAP and drug policy reformers like you. As a retired narcotics officer, I stand by the two-thirds of Americans who want marijuana to be legal for adults. I can’t think of a single marijuana possession arrest I made during my 34-year career as a police officer that made my community safer. The MORE Act is about more than simply allowing people to purchase marijuana legally: it’s about righting the wrongs of our failed experiment with marijuana prohibition. Thankfully, the House heard our call and they made the responsible choice: they voted in the interest of public safety. LEAP was the only law enforcement organization invited to speak in support of this historic bill. Our  speakers fight for safer, more just solutions to the most critical criminal justice and drug policy issues. When LEAP’s law enforcement experts have a seat at the table, we’re able to move reform forward. That wouldn’t be possible without your support. Today, we celebrate a powerful shift in the world of drug policy. Tomorrow, we go back to work, because our fight is far from over. Donate today to stand with LEAP and make sure this is just the beginning. In solidarity,
 Major Neill Franklin (Ret.)
Executive Director |
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