Rep. Kathy L. Rapp, a Republican representing Warren, Crawford, and Forest counties in Pennsylvania, expressed strong opposition to a bill that seeks to legalize recreational marijuana in the state. As the Republican chair of the House Health Committee, Rapp joined her fellow Republicans on the committee in voting against the proposal.
The 173-page legislation was introduced on Sunday, May 4, and was voted on by the Health Committee within approximately 24 hours. Rapp criticized this expedited process: “To say I am disappointed by the procedural handling of this bill is an understatement,” she said. She highlighted concerns about insufficient time for members and staff to thoroughly review and understand the lengthy document before it was considered in committee.
The bill passed out of the Health Committee with a narrow 14-12 party-line vote and now moves to the full House for further consideration. Rapp also took issue with the title of the bill: “I find the title of this bill oxymoronic,” she stated. She argued that there is nothing healthy or safe about legalizing recreational marijuana use.
While acknowledging that certain provisions aim to protect children from marijuana exposure, Rapp remains unconvinced that any legislative or regulatory measures can ensure children’s safety if recreational marijuana is legalized. “Once we open this door, there is no going back,” she warned.
Representative Kathy Rapp serves Pennsylvania’s 65th District in the House of Representatives.
