Ron Paul, Barney Frank Team Up to Legalize Pot

Pair will introduce first such bill in Congress
By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff
Posted Jun 23, 2011 9:46 AM CDT
Ron Paul, Barney Frank Team Up to Legalize Marijuana
This Newser combo image shows Ron Paul and Barney Frank.   (AP Photo)

Ron Paul and Barney Frank—surely Congress’ version of the Odd Couple—are set to introduce a bill today that would end the federal prohibition on marijuana, allowing states to legalize, tax, and regulate the drug. The bill would also “reprioritize federal resources” away from enforcing drug laws and fighting drug smuggling, Politico reports.

It’s the first time such legislation has ever been introduced in Congress, according to the Marijuana Policy Project. They’re touting the bill as “bipartisan legislation,” though Paul is the only Republican cosponsor—four other Democrats are onboard. The group doesn’t expect it to pass, but “it’s definitely going to get a serious debate,” a spokesman tells Reason, though “probably more in the media than on the floor of the House.” (More Barney Frank stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X