On a recent episode of Today in Ohio, hosts took aim at the glaring contradiction between state and federal marijuana laws, spotlighting Ohio Congressman Dave Joyce’s push to fix the disconnect. Joyce, a Republican from South Russell and co-chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, has introduced legislation to remove marijuana from the federal controlled substances list and allow states to regulate cannabis on their own terms.
“What’s idiotic about the current situation,” said host Chris Quinn, “is that the federal government is effectively turning millions of legal marijuana users into criminals.” Even in states where recreational marijuana is legal, users are still in violation of federal law—though it’s rarely enforced. “The law shouldn’t be on the books,” Quinn added.
Joyce’s proposal reflects growing frustration over a federal policy that undermines state-level legalization. As podcast host Lisa Garvin explained, Joyce believes federal marijuana laws have wasted tax dollars and law enforcement resources, focusing on minor cannabis arrests instead of violent crime.
Currently, 24 states—including Ohio—have legalized recreational marijuana, and 39 allow medical use. Yet the federal government’s outdated stance creates legal chaos for millions who believe they’re acting within the law. “This really is the states telling the federal government, take a hike,” said Quinn, framing the debate as a states’ rights issue.
Garvin also noted that Joyce is working with Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries on a separate bill that would establish a federal cannabis commission—modeled after alcohol regulation—to provide oversight without overriding state policies.
The conversation revealed bipartisan momentum for reform and a shared belief that federal prohibition is no longer sustainable. Joyce’s bill includes safeguards, such as banning sales to those under 21, but ultimately aims to bring federal law in line with modern realities.
It’s time, the panel agreed, for Washington to stop ignoring the federal-state marijuana conflict.