9 things to know about the legal weed bill Connecticut lawmakers expect to vote on this week

June 7, 2021
AggregatedNews
Connecticut
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Connecticut lawmakers are expected to take a vote on marijuana legalization this week after years of debate, and the 297-page measure they will consider is a sweeping package that establishes the framework for the new marijuana market, creates an option to erase past criminal convictions and seeks to allow those most harmed from cannabis prohibition to profit from the new industry.

The legislation, negotiated between Gov. Ned Lamont’s administration and top Democratic lawmakers, could receive a vote as soon as Monday in the state Senate. Retail sales are expected to begin around May 2022, but the bill does not include a start date. Here’s nine key things to know about the legislation:

Marijuana possession would become legal July 1

One of the first provisions of the bill to take effect would be the actual legalization of cannabis on July 1 for adults 21 and up. Individuals will be allowed to have no more than 1.5 ounces of marijuana on their person and as much as 5 ounces in their home or locked in their car’s trunk or glove box. Those ages 18-20 in possession of less than 5 ounces of marijuana would face a small fine for their first offense and those younger than 18 would receive a written warning and a referral to youth services. [Read More @ Hartford Courant]