Proposed Bill Aims to Withhold Federal Funds for Recreational Marijuana

According to CBS58 on September 3rd, US Congressman Chuck Edwards from North Carolina has introduced the "Stop Marijuana Act," aiming to withhold federal funds from states and tribes that allow recreational marijuana use.

This bill calls for withholding 10% of federal highway funds from areas that violate the Controlled Substances Act, classifying recreational marijuana as a Schedule I drug.

Edwards has issued the following statement:

Any government's laws should not infringe upon the overarching laws of our nation, and federal funding should not be granted to jurisdictions that purposely disregard federal laws. As we witness unprecedented levels of crime, drug addiction, and mental illness in our community, the 'Stop Cannabis Act' will help prevent more people from being exposed to drugs and alleviate the overwhelming pressures faced by our local law enforcement agencies and mental health professionals.

This legislation does not apply to medical marijuana usage areas where prescription is allowed exclusively for licensed healthcare professionals.

Edward's proposal comes at a time when the Eastern Cherokee tribe is preparing for a referendum election, which includes a question regarding the legality of selling and using recreational marijuana on tribal lands.

If the public vote in the eastern Cherokee Indian Tribe is successful, the Qualla Boundary will become the only legal place in North Carolina to purchase recreational marijuana.