This joint resolution from the Montana Legislature urges the United States Congress to pass the SAFER Banking Act of 2023. The resolution highlights the challenges faced by marijuana-related businesses due to the federal classification of marijuana as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, which restricts access to traditional banking services. As a result, many businesses are forced to operate in cash, increasing risks related to crime and regulatory evasion. The SAFER Banking Act aims to alleviate these issues by preventing penalties against banks that provide services to marijuana-related businesses, thereby enhancing public safety and allowing for better financial oversight.

The resolution notes the significant public support for marijuana legalization, with 38 states, including Montana, having legalized or decriminalized its use for medical or recreational purposes. It emphasizes the economic benefits that Montana has experienced from the marijuana industry, including substantial tax revenue that supports various state programs. The resolution concludes by directing the Secretary of State to send copies of the resolution to key congressional leaders and the Montana Congressional Delegation, advocating for the passage of the SAFER Banking Act to support the state's marijuana industry and its associated economic benefits.