Citing West Virginia’s population decline and economy, Delegate Mick Bates urged House members to take up a bill that would decriminalize cannabis in West Virginia.
Bates, D-Raleigh, addressed the House in Thursday’s floor session, urging support of House Bill 2331, relating to legalizing cannabis production, sales and adult consumption, of which he is the lead sponsor.
“Cannabis can fix the greatest problem West Virginia faces, cannabis is the single greatest economic opportunity West Virginia has,” Bates said.
Six bills on third reading passed in the House without any discussion;
- House Bill 2346 relates to changing the licensing requirement for certain casino employees.
- House Bill 2360 relates to placing the Athletic Commission under the Lottery Commission.
- House Bill 2412 relates to criminal acts concerning government procurement of commodities and services.
- House Bill 2422 concerns the time for the observation of “Celebrate Freedom Week.”
- House Bill 2459 exercises authority to exempt individuals domiciled within the state from certain restrictions contained in federal law.
- House Bill 2462 concerns the issuing of a certificate to correctional employees to carry firearms.
The House will reconvene Friday at 11 a.m.
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