Connecticut will become the latest Northeast state to legalize recreational cannabis. Governor Ned Lamont says he will sign a compromise package passed by the House Wednesday and the Senate Thursday in a special session of the General Assembly.
The bill lays the groundwork for the new industry. Lawmakers stripped a provision added Tuesday in the Senate about “social equity” applicants for marijuana licenses. Lamont argued it was too broad and would have given preference to tens of thousands of people with a history of cannabis crimes, or members of their families, regardless of their financial means.
In a statement, Lamont, a Democrat, said it was fitting the bill was passed on the 50th anniversary of President Nixon declaring the War on Drugs.
Lamont says the bill means Connecticut is effectively modernizing its laws, addressing inequities, and keeping the state economically competitive with neighboring states. Lamont says he looks forward to “moving beyond this terrible period of incarceration and injustice."
Sales could begin as soon as spring of 2022. The bill also makes it legal for adults ages 21 and older to possess small amounts of marijuana beginning July 1.
With Associated Press.
