Senate leader lends clout to pot legalization push

WASHINGTON — The Senate’s top Democrat is backing a bill that would strike down a longstanding federal prohibition on marijuana, embracing a proposal that has slim chance of becoming law yet demonstrates growing public support for decriminalizing the drug.

Proposals to legalize marijuana are nothing new. But Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is a sponsor of the effort unveiled Wednesday, underscoring how a once-fringe idea is increasingly mainstream.

The measure would erode a central pillar of the decades-long war on drugs, which has disproportionately affected communities of color in the United States.

“I will use my clout as majority leader to make this a priority in the Senate,” said Schumer, the first Senate leader to support such an effort. “It’s not just an idea whose time has come, it’s long overdue.”

The bill would treat marijuana much like alcohol or tobacco, allowing it to be taxed and regulated. States could still outlaw its use. And those under the age of 21 couldn’t buy it.

It would remain illegal to sell significant quantities without proper licensing and authorization, much like bootlegging alcohol. It also would clear the path for more cannabis medical research.

But besides clearing obstacles to recreational use, advocates say the bill would help the poor and those from communities of color who have disproportionately been arrested, charged and jailed for marijuana crimes.

The bill would expunge federal nonviolent convictions and allow for records of them to be sealed. Those serving nonviolent marijuana-related sentences also could seek a review hearing and get an expungement.

“We have our precious resources being used to lock up … Black and brown people for doing things that presidents, Congresspeople and senators have done,” said Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey, who is also a co-sponsor of the bill, along with Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden.

A similar bill has passed the House. But the measure has no realistic way forward in a narrowly divided Senate, where 60 votes are needed to pass most legislation.