HARTFORD — Connecticut's continuing fiscal woes, coupled with a new law that fully takes effect next year in neighboring Massachusetts, have prompted state lawmakers to take their most serious look yet at possibly legalizing the recreational use of marijuana for adults.
Several bills with bipartisan support that sanction the retail sale and cultivation of pot are currently progressing through the General Assembly. The first bill drew dozens of supporters last week at a Public Health Committee hearing, many lauding the legislation as a way to regulate an illegal industry and potentially deliver millions of dollars for the state's coffers.
"Why should we continue to give business opportunities to violent criminals who don't pay taxes and follow no regulations," asked Democratic Rep. Robyn Porter at the hearing.
Yet, despite the apparent growing enthusiasm and the fact Connecticut already legalized the medical use of marijuana, it's questionable whether any of the recreational-use bills will ultimately survive this session.
Several bills with bipartisan support that sanction the retail sale and cultivation of pot are currently progressing through the General Assembly. The first bill drew dozens of supporters last week at a Public Health Committee hearing, many lauding the legislation as a way to regulate an illegal industry and potentially deliver millions of dollars for the state's coffers.
"Why should we continue to give business opportunities to violent criminals who don't pay taxes and follow no regulations," asked Democratic Rep. Robyn Porter at the hearing.
Yet, despite the apparent growing enthusiasm and the fact Connecticut already legalized the medical use of marijuana, it's questionable whether any of the recreational-use bills will ultimately survive this session.
