Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First District today spoke on the House Floor in support of medical marijuana and common sense proposals that would preserve states’ rights and ensure patients and businesses are protected. Below are her remarks:

“In the year 2000, the people of Nevada overwhelmingly voted to legalize medical marijuana, 65 to 35 percent. Thirteen years later, the state legislature passed an enacting statute and last week the Las Vegas City Council and Clark County Commission both approved the establishment of dispensaries. 

“Similar action has taken place in 18 other states, creating a patchwork of conflicting state, local, and federal laws and regulations. As a result, there is a great deal of uncertainty and confusion for Nevadans and doctors, patients, and businesses in other states where marijuana is legal. 

“As more states move toward legalizing marijuana use, it is important that Congress address the issue to ensure consumers and businesses are protected and are able to operate without fear of federal prosecution. 

“That’s why I’m cosponsoring the Respect State Marijuana Laws Act; Truth in Trials Act; and Marijuana Business Access to Banking Act. I have also joined a bipartisan group of my colleagues to call on the Appropriations Committee to ensure the Department of Justice is not wasting tax-payer dollars prosecuting lawful marijuana users in states where it is legal.

“These are common sense proposals that preserve states’ rights and ensure patients and businesses are protected.”