John — Congress will vote on the MORE Act this week. Will you sign my petition urging members of Congress to pass this progressive, landmark legislation to enact cannabis reform?

Marijuana has long been a driving force in our country for mass incarceration. As co-chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, I know that we can end our nation’s outdated and discriminatory marijuana laws and bring about true criminal justice reform.

This past election, Americans in several states overwhelmingly voted to liberalize cannabis policies — and polling shows more than 65% of Americans support legalizing cannabis and expunging the records of those previously convicted of cannabis-related crimes.

John, when the majority of the public says they want something, I think it’s time we do something. That’s why I’m fighting hard to pass the MORE Act — which would decriminalize cannabis, restore justice to communities of color devastated by the failed War on Drugs by expunging records of conviction, and apply a 5% sales tax on marijuana to:

• Provide services like job training, legal aid, literacy programs, and mentoring to the individuals impacted by the War on Drugs;


• Provide funds for loans to assist small businesses in the industry that are owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals;


• And provide funds for programs that minimize barriers to marijuana licensing and employment for those most adversely impacted by the War on Drugs.

Cannabis reform is a racial justice issue. I’m determined to repair the damage systemic racism has caused Black and brown communities through the War on Drugs. That’s why I’m urging Congress to pass this progressive reform immediately.

Washington must catch up with the American people and vote in lockstep with our needs. If you agree, please stand alongside me by adding your name to my petition urging Congress to pass the MORE Act:

In solidarity,

Barbara Lee