HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut lawmakers are casting the first votes of the session on a bill that could legalize recreational marijuana in the state.
The General Law Committee debated legislation Monday that spells out many details of a proposed legalized system for adults. It's one of several bills up for debate this session aimed at legalizing pot.
Democratic Rep. Michael D'Agostino of Hamden, the committee's co-chairman, says eventually all the pieces will be included in one comprehensive bill.
While Monday's bill is expected to pass, the votes won't be finalized until 4 p.m.
Opponents are voicing concern about the possibility of increased driving fatalities and increased drug use among teens at a time when their brains are developing.
But proponents note how the bill attempts to address past racial disparities in drug arrests.