Pennsylvania House advances bill legalizing recreational marijuana

Pennsylvanians 21 or older would be allowed to legally purchase and use marijuana under a bill that passed the state House on Wednesday, the first time a recreational cannabis proposal has been approved by either legislative chamber. Democrats voted unanimously to advance the multifaceted bill to the Senate over unified opposition from Republicans, just as lawmakers are working out which issues will be part of the budget-season dealmaking that occurs every year at this time in Harrisburg. The proposal was touted by the main sponsor, Democratic Rep. Rick Krajewski of Philadelphia, as a “balanced, responsible and robust framework” that will create jobs, ensure a safe product and maintain affordable prices for consumers.