A Conversation with Rep. Matt Gaetz About Marijuana

Just before leaving Washington D.C. for a the congressional recess, freshman lawmaker Rep. Matt Gaetz, (R-Fla.), introduced a proposal to reschedule marijuana, effectively loosening the laws surrounding the substance. A few days later, sitting in his Pensacola district office, the congressman sat down for a discussion about the move.

Gaetz explained the rationale behind his bill — introduced with fellow congressman from Orlando, Rep. Darren Soto, (D-Fla.) — and also discussed his views on the evolving nature of marijuana laws around the country. He suggested the federal government needs to "pull its head out of the sand" and argued that the issue should transcend partisan ranks.