Democratic Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton Vows to Continue Fighting Against Federal Interference with D.C. Cannabis Laws

Democratic Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, representing Washington, D.C., is determined to continue her fight against efforts by her GOP colleagues to limit the District’s marijuana laws. Norton recently spoke at the National Cannabis Policy Summit, where she addressed the longstanding federal obstacles preventing the commercialization of cannabis in D.C., despite overwhelming local support for reform. At the heart of her criticism is a federal spending bill rider that has been in place for years, barring the establishment of a legal adult-use cannabis market in the nation’s capital.

The Fight Against Federal Spending Riders and Their Impact on D.C. Marijuana Reform

Rep. Norton’s main focus at the summit was the appropriations rider, which has historically blocked the implementation of cannabis legalization measures in D.C. Despite the overwhelming support of D.C. voters for marijuana legalization—including both possession and cultivation—there has been no legal framework for commercial sales. Norton has emphasized that this rider, introduced by Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), continues to impede the progress that D.C. residents have demanded.

For over a decade, residents of Washington, D.C., have voted in favor of legalizing marijuana possession and home cultivation. However, the federal government’s role in D.C., as outlined in the Constitution, has enabled Congress to wield significant influence over local policies. As Norton noted, while state-level cannabis reforms have advanced in various parts of the country, the federal government continues to block progress in the District, creating a unique and frustrating legal quagmire.

Norton Calls for Congressional Action to Remove the Rider and Legalize Cannabis in D.C.

During her speech, Norton highlighted that the time had come for the federal government to “catch up with the American people” and legalize adult-use marijuana on a national scale. She argued that there is broad public support for reform, pointing to a nationwide shift in attitudes toward cannabis legalization. Nevertheless, Norton remains steadfast in her resolve to continue fighting for D.C.’s right to regulate cannabis within its own jurisdiction.

One of her main objectives is to remove the spending bill rider that has thwarted D.C.’s attempts to create a regulated marijuana market. Norton’s determination to push for this reform comes at a time when other states are rapidly moving forward with legalization, leaving D.C. residents increasingly frustrated by their lack of access to legal, regulated cannabis. Norton plans to once again advocate for the rider’s removal as Congress prepares to debate the fiscal year 2026 appropriations bill, which will determine whether this limitation persists.

The Role of the Federal Government in D.C.’s Marijuana Policy

While Norton’s speech focused heavily on the appropriations rider, she also pointed to the broader issue of federal interference in D.C.’s marijuana policy. As she explained, the federal government has a unique role in D.C. due to its plenary authority over the district’s affairs. This means that Congress has the power to legislate on any D.C. matter at any time, including marijuana policies. Unfortunately, Congress has consistently used this authority to prevent D.C. from enacting the full spectrum of cannabis reforms, including the ability to legalize adult-use sales.

The rider, which prohibits D.C. from allocating funds for the regulation of adult-use cannabis, is just one example of federal meddling in local affairs. Norton has long been a vocal advocate for D.C. statehood, arguing that the District should have full control over its local laws and policies without interference from Congress.

Federal Opposition to D.C.’s Cannabis Reform Efforts

Norton’s fight for D.C. marijuana reform is not without significant opposition. Recent statements from the Trump administration and the GOP have further complicated efforts to legalize cannabis in D.C. For instance, President Trump has been an outspoken critic of marijuana legalization in D.C., even issuing an executive order during his first term that condemned the District’s move toward legal cannabis sales. Additionally, the executive order criticized D.C. for legalizing marijuana, with a particular focus on concerns about public safety and potential disorder.

The Trump administration’s stance is reflective of the broader opposition within the Republican Party, which has consistently opposed legalization efforts in D.C. GOP members have argued that marijuana legalization poses significant public health and safety risks, and some have called for stricter federal enforcement of marijuana laws in the District.

Norton’s Legislative Efforts to Address Marijuana Policy Challenges

In addition to her efforts to remove the appropriations rider, Rep. Norton also outlined her plans to reintroduce legislation aimed at expanding marijuana access in D.C. Specifically, she intends to file a bill that would allow marijuana use in public or federally-assisted housing, in compliance with local cannabis laws. Currently, federal housing regulations prohibit marijuana use in properties receiving federal assistance, creating a significant barrier for D.C. residents who wish to consume cannabis legally.

Norton also expressed her intention to introduce a bill that would grant D.C. the authority to issue clemency for crimes committed within the District, including those related to marijuana offenses. This proposal is aimed at aligning D.C. with states that have the power to grant clemency for state-level offenses. If successful, this bill could provide much-needed relief for individuals who were convicted of marijuana-related crimes prior to legalization.

Challenges Facing the Legalization Movement in Washington, D.C.

Despite the growing public support for marijuana legalization, D.C. remains at an impasse when it comes to enacting comprehensive reform. Polls consistently show that the majority of D.C. residents support adult-use marijuana legalization, yet the city is unable to move forward due to federal restrictions. This disconnect between public opinion and federal law has fueled frustration among local activists, lawmakers, and residents who believe that D.C. should have the right to regulate cannabis just like any other state.

Norton’s efforts to remove the appropriations rider and push for D.C. statehood are part of a broader strategy to ensure that local laws reflect the will of the people. By continuing to fight for the removal of this rider, Norton hopes to pave the way for a regulated cannabis market that benefits the District’s economy and public safety.

Norton’s Commitment to Marijuana Reform and D.C. Statehood

Rep. Norton’s unwavering commitment to marijuana reform and D.C. statehood reflects her broader vision for the District. In her speech at the National Cannabis Policy Summit, she made it clear that she will continue to advocate for D.C.’s right to regulate marijuana without interference from Congress. Moreover, she believes that the fight for marijuana legalization in D.C. is inseparable from the broader struggle for D.C. statehood, arguing that only through full representation and autonomy can the District truly achieve the progress its residents deserve.

As the debate over marijuana legalization continues to evolve both in D.C. and across the nation, Norton’s leadership will remain crucial in the fight to ensure that D.C. residents are not left behind in the push for marijuana reform. By continuing to challenge federal interference and champion local reform, she is working to create a future where D.C. residents can fully exercise their right to self-determination and enjoy the benefits of a legalized cannabis market.