Wednesday, July 2, 2025

GOP Congressman Threatens to Block Cannabis Banking Protections in Spending Bill

Republican Congressman Chuck Edwards of North Carolina has expressed strong concerns over a provision in the Fiscal Year 2025 Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) appropriations bill that would offer limited protections for banks working with state-legal marijuana businesses. 

The language, secured by subcommittee chairman Rep. Dave Joyce (R-OH), aims to prevent federal regulators from penalizing financial institutions that service cannabis companies operating in compliance with state laws.

During a markup of the spending measure on Wednesday, Rep. Edwards voiced his opposition to the cannabis banking section, arguing that it is not germane to an appropriations bill and amounts to an “affirmative authorization disguised as a limitation.” He also criticized the policy substance, emphasizing that marijuana remains a Schedule I drug under federal law, despite legalization efforts by some states.

The congressman, who previously introduced legislation to cut federal funding from states and tribes that legalize marijuana, stated his belief that the drug should remain illegal due to its potential dangers and harm, particularly to younger individuals. He characterized the banking provision as a “selective” part of the standalone SAFE Banking Act and warned that it would significantly alter American business practices.

While acknowledging the determination of members supporting the provision, Rep. Edwards maintained that an appropriations bill is not the appropriate place for such a measure. He signaled his intention to propose an amendment to remove the section during the full committee or floor proceedings.

The FSGG spending legislation also notably excludes a long-standing rider that has prevented Washington, DC from using local tax dollars to legalize recreational marijuana sales. However, it does include language blocking the use of DC funds for a syringe exchange program, among other local policy interferences.


Information for this story was found via Marijuana Moment, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.

Video Articles

Gold Drilling Scaled to 60,000 Meters: How Big Can This Get? | Roger Rosmus – Goliath Resources

Baselode Energy To Acquire Forum Energy: The Merger Of Equals Deal

TriStar Gold: The Revised Castelo de Sonhos Prefeasibility Study

Recommended

ESGold To Expand Mine Building At Montauban In Advance Of Gold & Silver Production

Goliath Resources Expands 2025 Drill Program To 60,000 Metres

Related News

Senator Crapo Wants to Hold Cannabis Banking Reform Vote

Today POLITICO is reporting, Senate Banking Chairman Mike Crapo wants to hold a vote on...

Friday, September 13, 2019, 01:25:07 PM

Cannabis Banking Splits Senate Panel as Industry Seeks Relief

Cannabis banking access dominated a Senate hearing Wednesday as lawmakers debated financial services for the...

Thursday, February 6, 2025, 12:24:00 PM