Tipsheet

Capitol Source: the D.C. Marijuana Debate

Washington, D.C. Councilman David Grosso (I) has vowed to confront Congress about an issue his city voted overwhelmingly in favor of—marijuana legalization. 

Last November 70 percent of Washington D.C. residents voted to approve to sale and use of marijuana for legalization purposes in the nation's capital. Their support, however, held little meaning. While D.C. may sport a mayor, an elected city council, and even have its fair share of ballots and measures, the District is ultimately controlled by the federal government. 

Only one month after approving the measure, Congress banned all taxpayer funds from being used towards cannabis legalization. Without the means to create a regulated marketplace the city's hands are tied.

If Grosso's legislation passes, it would make marijuana taxation and sales legal in the District. 

But why is Congress against regulating drugs? In today's "Capitol Source," we hear from advocates on either side of the marijuana debate as they discuss the pros and cons of marijuana legalization.