OLYMPIA — Seven members of Washington’s 12-member congressional delegation have asked the U.S. government to respect the state’s marijuana legalization effort and provide guidance about the industry’s fate.
In a letter released Tuesday, the members of Congress asked the Department of Justice to not preempt the new law or prosecute residents acting in compliance with state law. While Washington voters approved an initiative last year to legalize the recreational use of marijuana, the substance remains illegal under federal law.
“We urge DOJ to expeditiously announce a course of action that will respect the will of these voters, and to work cooperatively with our states during the implementation of these laws,” the lawmakers wrote.
The letter was signed by all of the state’s Democratic members of Congress, except for U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen. None of the state’s Republican representatives signed the letter.