The U.S. House voted Wednesday afternoon to continue to prevent the Department of Justice from interfering in states’ medical pot programs — but the House voted down a more sweeping bill that would have protected those who use, sell or possess recreational cannabis in states where it is legal.
The GOP-controlled House passed the Rohrabacher-Farr Medical Marijuana Amendment, which prevents the Justice Department from interfering with states that have legalized medical marijuana, by a vote of 242-186.
“The majority of the states have said they want medical marijuana patients to have access to the medicine they need without fear of prosecution,” Rep. Sam Farr, D-Calif., said in a release.
“For the second year in a row, the people’s house has listened to the will of the people and voted to give them that access.”
But the McClintock-Polis Marijuana Amendment failed in the House 206-222.
According to the office of Rep. Jared Polis, D-Colo., the amendment would have prevented the DEA from prosecuting people who use, sell or possess marijuana in compliance with state laws.
“This measure would provide much-needed certainty to marijuana businesses that they can operate free from harassment and interference by federal drug authorities,” a statement from his office said.
