Pro-marijuana amendment snuffed out in Congress

Congress appears to be backing off its support for state marijuana laws.

The House Financial Services Committee rejected an amendment designed to protect banks working with marijuana businesses where pot is legal under state laws.

Lawmakers who oppose marijuana voted down the plan to shield banks from federal penalties.

It marks a reversal from 2014 when the House passed similar legislation.

The change of course comes five months before California becomes the largest state to consider legalizing pot.

Congressman Denny Heck is from Washington State where pot is legal under state law.

He says the failure of the amendment will force marijuana businesses to deal in cash.

"Being all cash means more crime, full-stop," Heck said.

Cox Media Group