Prof. Carpenter Speaks on WCCO on States Passing Laws that Contradict Federal Law

Professor Dale Carpenter spoke on WCCO's "Good Question: How Can States Pass Laws That Contradict Federal Law?" After Colorado and Washington approved ballot initiatives to make using small amounts of marijuana legal, there is uncertainty as federal law classifies marijuana as an illegal drug under the Controlled Substances Act. Carpenter stated that typically, states have the authority to set laws regulating criminal activity. "The Constitution makes it clear, in the event of a conflict, federal law prevails," he said.