Connecticut Is Reconsidering Legalizing Recreational Marijuana Use

Massachusetts—who legalized recreational cannabis last year— is setting the tone for New England.

Most recently, Connecticut has been reconsidering its stance on recreational cannabis. The San Francisco Chronicle reports state lawmakers—particularly Democratic Senate President Martin Looney—have observed how well commercial sales in Massachusetts are going.

During a public hearing last Thursday, Looney mentioned how he doesn't want Connecticut to fall behind other states when it comes to legal pot. While legalization has been discussed in previous legislative sessions, nothing is set in stone to indicate any progress will happen anytime soon.

Massachusetts has been the inspiration for Connecticut cannabis advocates. According to Mass Live, the new cannabis policy includes allowing home growers to grow six plants at home with the maximum of 12 plants per residence.

Lawmakers also have their eyes on Vermont, who is the first-ever state to pass legalization through a state legislature, as well as Rhode Island who is also expected to legalize soon in the Constitution State.

The green rush is hitting other states along the East Coast. According to NJ.com, recently appointed Governor Phil Murphy pledged to legalize recreational cannabis statewide by the end of 2018. Following the Christie administration, the former Democratic gubernatorial candidate incorporated legalization heavily into his campaign.

In the meantime, the War on Drugs continues to profit under Donald Trump. States with strict drug policies, like Jeff Sessions' home state of Alabama, continue to persecute harshly for possession and other drug-related charges. Meanwhile, Canada is anticipated to legalize cannabis for recreational use on a national scale this year.