Senator pushing amendment to protect marijuana industry

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KAIT/GRAY D.C.) - A U.S. Senator plans to make another go to amend the First Step Act to protect the marijuana industry in states where it is legal.

Colorado Senator Cory Gardner said his amendment would give states more control in regards to dealing with marijuana within its borders.

"This fixes the uncertainty of that federal and state law conflict and gives and provides greater service and stability under the law and allows the states greater determination of what they want to do going forward," Gardner said.

Gardner called the amendment a “bright line of distinction” which he believes would increase safety in the community and help counter the marijuana black market.

"It would allow greater cooperation between federal law enforcement and state law enforcement agencies/local law enforcement agencies," Gardner said. "I think this would give better tools, better power to protect our communities from those who would use this industry unlawfully."

47 states currently have a form of legalized marijuana.

Gardner hopes that lawmakers on both sides of the aisle can come together to pass this amendment.