In an exclusive address to the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) emphasized the remarkable progress and enduring challenges in cannabis legislation.

Blumenauer, a longstanding cannabis advocate, traced his involvement in the cause back to 1973 when Oregon decriminalized cannabis.

He commended the bipartisan support in the House for the Safe Banking Act and the historic passage of the MORE Act in Congress.

“No one has been penalized for their embrace of cannabis reform or legislation at the same time that we continue our multipronged approach federally. We must continue to build on our record of support in state after state. I'm proud to have worked on every successful ballot measure for cannabis legalization," Blumenauer said in a video address. 

"This pattern of success across the country and legislatively is the formula for our ultimate success. We are closer than we've ever been, even though the target shifted from the House to the Senate,” Blumenauer said.

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Senate Support Grows; Executive Action Considered

Blumenauer acknowledged the shift of focus to the Senate and ongoing efforts with the administration. He predicted the Senate's imminent approval of the SAFER Banking Act, representing significant bipartisan backing.

While hinting at positive signals from the Biden administration, he stressed the power of executive action in full cannabis legalization.

The congressman underscored the pivotal role of cannabis voters in recent elections, particularly in Arizona.

He cited John Fetterman's electoral victory, largely attributed to his strong pro-cannabis stance. Blumenauer emphasized that those championing cannabis reform have not faced repercussions and advocated for continued state-level support.

Blumenauer concluded with optimism, stating, "When these dominoes fall, they will fall quickly." He urged continued pressure in all arenas to achieve cannabis reform.

“In the meantime, we must keep up the pressure in every arena. With your help, we will get there,” Blumenauer said.

The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, the place where deals get done, is taking place this week in Chicago. Get your tickets today before prices increase and secure a spot at the epicenter of cannabis investment and branding.

(Photo: Creative Commons, Bureau of Land Management, 2013).