“This legislation recognizes that the responsible use of marijuana by adults should not be a crime, and that those who carry the stigma of a criminal record for their past use of cannabis should receive relief.”
Tag: Connecticut
“Marginalized communities have disproportionately suffered for decades because of the discriminatory enforcement of marijuana laws in Connecticut. This bill is a step toward addressing that shameful legacy and it will provide long-needed relief to communities that have historically experienced the collateral consequences of prohibition.”
The House is expected to take up the proposal Wednesday.
“It is not a question of ‘if’ cannabis is legalized in Connecticut, only a question of ‘when.’”
“For decades, tens of thousands of Connecticut residents have faced arrest, prosecution, and the lifelong stigma associated with marijuana criminalization, simply for possessing a substance that is objectively safer than alcohol, tobacco, and many prescription medications.”
According to statewide polling data, 63 percent of Connecticut residents support ending marijuana prohibition in the state.
Of the 15 states that have now enacted adult-use legalization, 13 have done so by voter initiative. Many states, however, do not offer a citizens’ initiative option — meaning that the only way to enact substantive marijuana reform is through the legislative process.
Big news out of Connecticut today, as a bill to legalize the adult-use and retail sale of marijuana has passed through a critical vote in the General Law Committee with a 10-8 majority.