WASHINGTON, DC – The Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Cannabis Caucus, Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14), Congressman Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), and Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13), released the below statement on the passing of their colleague and friend, Congressman Don Young (AK-At Large):

“Don was a fierce advocate for ending the failed federal prohibition of cannabis. He was dedicated to ensuring Alaskans and all Americans had the opportunity for a better life not just for today, but also for tomorrow and the future. It was with that dedication that he helped found this Caucus and created a forum where any and all Members could engage, discuss, and learn about the need to establish a more rational approach to federal cannabis policy.

“As the four of us worked together across party lines to advance this important issue, we watched it gain more momentum with the American people than ever before. Don’s legacy of bipartisanship is the foundation on which we will continue to build the consensus necessary to enact impactful reform that will address our outdated federal cannabis laws.

“He was a legendary leader, not only in this space but on any priority of the Alaskan people. He was a historic lawmaker whose legislative accomplishments are sure to go down in history. And he was our friend. We feel his loss deeply and our thoughts are with his wife, his children, and his staff.”

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