WASHINGTON (AP) — Washington’s mayor says marijuana will become legal in the nation’s capital despite a threat from Republicans in Congress that city leaders could face prison time for implementing a voter-approved initiative.

Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser said Wednesday that the city and Republicans disagree about whether the city is allowed to legalize pot. She says those legal differences can be resolved without either side “bullying” the other.

Possession of up to 2 ounces of pot for recreational purposes will become legal on Thursday at 12:01 a.m. The District will become the first place east of the Mississippi River with legal pot. Selling the drug will remain illegal.

Rep. Jason Chaffetz, a Utah Republican, says Congress explicitly banned legalization and that the city will face repercussions.