Overview

• HB 1200, proposing state-run cannabis retail stores, was rejected by the Pennsylvania Senate Law and Justice Committee in a 7-3 vote on May 13, 2025.
• The bill, narrowly passed by the Democrat-controlled House on May 7, would have legalized recreational marijuana sales exclusively through state-operated outlets.
• Republican Sen. Dan Laughlin criticized the state-store model as unworkable and called for bipartisan collaboration on a more feasible legalization proposal.
• Advocates for HB 1200 argued the state-run system would support small entrepreneurs and communities affected by the War on Drugs, while critics warned it could exclude private businesses and increase public costs.
• With HB 1200 stalled, lawmakers and stakeholders are exploring alternative approaches, and Attorney General Dave Sunday has signaled potential openness to future marijuana policy reform.