Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) remains committed to moving a bipartisan marijuana banking bill during the lame duck session, a senior staffer says—while also confirming that the senator is looking to attach the reform to must-pass stopgap legislation to keep the government funded.
There's been significant uncertainty about the prospects of the Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act in the remainder of the 118th Congress, especially amid competing legislative priorities in a divided Congress. And while President-elect Donald Trump endorsed the reform, it's uncertain how the incoming GOP majority in both chambers would approach the issue.
Schumer has repeatedly, over multiple sessions, described the marijuana banking bill as a priority. But it's been unclear where that measure stands following the election. A senior staffer in Schumer's office told Marijuana Moment on Thursday that the legislation is still on the agenda.
"Though still facing Republican opposition, Leader Schumer remains committed to passing a strong and bipartisan agreement and will continue to push to make SAFER Banking law," they said.
Read more at Marijuana Moment