States would be free to decide whether to legalize marijuana without violating federal law but would require purchasers to pay federal taxes on its sale.
Representatives Earl Blumenauer of Oregon and Jared Polis of Colorado, plan to introduce such legislation.
One bill would end the federal ban on marijuana and give states jurisdiction over its use and regulate it similar to alcohol sales. The other bill would would levy a federal tax on its sale.
it does not make sense for the federal government to prosecute marijuana sellers and users in such states, given limited government resources and growing public acceptance.
Tax on sales could be earmarked for drug counselling and rehabilitation, deficit reduction, or to help make medicare, medicaid or social security solvent.