HARRISBURG, Pa. – The Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition (PCC), Pennsylvania’s cannabis industry trade association, commended Governor Josh Shapiro for his commitment to the legalization of adult-use cannabis as highlighted in the governor’s budget address February 4.
“Pennsylvania is uniquely positioned to experience the economic benefits of cannabis legalization swiftly because of its robust existing cannabis infrastructure,” said PCC Executive Director Meredith Buettner Schneider. “With 32 active grower/processors, almost 200 dispensaries and more than 25,000 employees, the current medical marijuana industry is ready to deliver safe, regulated cannabis on day-one while generating revenue for the Commonwealth immediately.
PCC stands ready to work with the governor and legislature to file legislation that uses the existing program as a foundation while embracing lessons learned from surrounding markets and brings home lost revenues to be reinvested in the Commonwealth”
PCC embraces Governor Shapiro’s commitment to public health and safety. The existing industry has ensured that medical marijuana patients have had access to safe, tested, and accurately labeled medical marijuana for more than six years. PCC members are committed to establishing clear guidelines for the production, distribution, and sale of adult-use cannabis products that build off the Commonwealth’s medical marijuana program. Using the existing medical marijuana infrastructure will most quickly divert cannabis sales away from the illicit market, reducing the risks associated with unregulated products and undermining illegal operations.
PCC looks forward to collaborating with Governor Shapiro and the legislature to develop a comprehensive and effective framework for adult-use cannabis legalization. We believe that through open dialogue and cooperation, Pennsylvania can set a national standard for responsible, equitable and revenue positive cannabis policy.
About the Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition
The Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition is a 501(c)6 trade organization composed of Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana permit holders and industry partners. The organization’s purpose is to protect and preserve Pennsylvania’s emerging cannabis market. PCC helps devise policy that regulates the sensible cultivation, distribution, and use of cannabis and advocates for a robust, yet economically sensible, regulatory framework.
