1. United States
2. Utah
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong support for the Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States (STATES) 2.0 Act, a bipartisan effort that rightfully reinforces states’ rights to determine their own cannabis policies without undue federal interference. As of April 2025, 38 states, four territories, and the District of Columbia have enacted medical cannabis laws, and 24 states plus D.C. have legalized adult-use cannabis. This reflects the will of tens of millions of Americans across the political spectrum. Polling continues to show broad, bipartisan public support for states deciding their own cannabis laws. A 2024 Gallup poll found 70% of Americans support legalizing cannabis — the highest recorded level to date. The current conflict between federal prohibition and state-level legalization creates serious challenges for law enforcement, public health policy, financial institutions, and the regulated cannabis industry. For example: Cannabis businesses operating legally under state law remain cut off from most banking services, increasing public safety risks by forcing cash-only operations. Federal criminalization restricts research into the medical applications of cannabis, limiting access to evidence-based treatment options for patients. Veterans and patients in states with medical cannabis laws often face federal barriers to accessing care. The STATES 2.0 Act provides a clear, constitutional framework that respects state authority while establishing federal safeguards against trafficking and underage access. It protects public safety without continuing outdated, one-size-fits-all federal policy. I urge you to support this legislation and help bring federal law into alignment with the majority of states and the American public. Thank you for your consideration.