New GOP Senate Leader John Thune Opposes Marijuana Legalization: Implications For Banking Access And More
Senate Republicans elected Sen. John Thune of South Dakota as the new majority leader Wednesday, succeeding Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky. Thune, who has consistently opposed marijuana legalization, has also criticized efforts to reschedule cannabis and expand the industry’s access to banking services.
In July, Thune joined fellow GOP lawmakers in a letter challenging the Biden administration’s proposal to reclassify marijuana to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act. The letter argued that the rescheduling lacked sufficient scientific evidence and was “irresponsible” given emerging research indicating significant health concerns associated with marijuana use.
Consistent Opposition To Cannabis Reform
Thune’s longstanding opposition to marijuana reform, coupled with his new leadership role, indicates there could be challenges …