Massachusetts Federal Judge Wary of Nixing US Cannabis Laws

A Massachusetts federal judge signaled Wednesday that US Supreme Court precedent affirming the government’s right to regulate intrastate marijuana manufacturing and distribution remains good law despite lack of enforcement.

Cannabis businesses in Massachusetts are suing US Attorney General Merrick Garland over the federal Controlled Substance Act’s ban on activity in intrastate marijuana markets, claim Congress only has the authority to control commerce that crosses state lines.

“How do you deal with the recognized principle that even if the underlying foundation” for a Supreme Court decision has eroded, and “even if everything you’re saying is true, it’s for ...