Hawaii Senate Approves Resolution Urging U.S. Congress to Deschedule Marijuana, Expand Expungements and Allow Cannabis Banking

Hawaii’s full Senate has voted in favor of a resolution calling on federal lawmakers to remove marijuana from the Controlled Substances Act, expand expungement efforts, and provide banking access for marijuana businesses.

The measure, Senate Resolution 58 (S.S.C.R. 3532), was approved after previously clearing the Senate Judiciary Committee with a unanimous 5 to 0 vote. The resolution was introduced by State Senator Joy San Buenaventura (D) and State Senator Angus McKelvey (D), alongside a companion measure, Senate Concurrent Resolution 64. Lawmakers advanced the proposal with minor amendments, although details of those changes have not been publicly outlined.

The resolution does not make any changes to Hawaii law. Instead, it serves as a formal request for Congress to address ongoing federal barriers that continue to impact states with legal marijuana programs.

Specifically, the resolution urges Congress to fully deschedule marijuana, removing it from the list of federally controlled substances. It also calls for increased federal support for expunging past marijuana-related convictions.

In addition, the measure calls on Congress to “Facilitate access to the full spectrum of banking services for cannabis-related businesses.”

With Senate approval secured, the resolution now moves to the House. If adopted by the full legislature, it will be sent to President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, congressional leadership, and each member of Hawaii’s congressional delegation.