Two lawmakers, one a Democrat and the other a Republican, have introduced legislation in Harrisburg to legalize adult-use marijuana in Pennsylvania.

State Senators Dan Laughlin, R-49th, and Sharif Street, D-3rd, said the bill prioritizes safety, community reinvestment, social and economic equity and agriculture, and creates vital tax-revenue streams.

“This bill ensures a legalized market in the commonwealth is implemented safely and responsibly, with a thoughtful approach that provides opportunities to medical and recreational consumers, farms and small, medium and minority-owned businesses,” Laughlin said.

Street said he is proud to join his Republican colleague in introducing the bill, which was created in collaboration with key community groups and stakeholders throughout the state.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Legislature and with the administration to build support for this critical legislation that aims to make Pennsylvania's cannabis market the most diverse and inclusive in the country,” Street said.

A joint news release from the senators said the cannabis industry employs about 250,000 Americans and supports more than 300,000 indirect jobs and full-time workers.

The last election, according to the release, showed that American attitudes regarding cannabis have changed and are more mainstream than ever.

Polling results indicate that nearly two-thirds of Pennsylvanians support adult use marijuana legalization, said the senators' release.

Marijuana is now legal in 15 states and approved for medical use almost nationwide.