After debate lasted until about 1:45 Tuesday morning, the history-making bill that would legalize recreational use of marijuana in Connecticut passed the State Senate by two votes, 19-17. Six Democrats joined all but one Republican in voting against the plan.
In a bit of last second drama, the Senate board showed 17-16 "yes" for several minutes with three votes outstanding: all Democrats (Cassano, McCrory, Miller). Sen. Doug McCrory and Sen. Patricia Billie Miller put the bill over the top, before Sen. Steve Cassano became the sixth "no" vote among Democrats.
In the final tally, Republican Sen. Kevin Witkos had joined 18 Democrats in voting "yes."
If the bill passes the House, purchase of small amounts of pot will become legal on July 1st of this year. Retail sales would start in about May, 2022. The package includes a 6.35% sales tax-- about equal to Massachusetts (6.25%), but less than half of New York's 13% levy.
For Democrats, the biggest remaining issue of the moment might be whether the House can get the job done in time. The current legislative session expires Wednesday night, and the highly complex state budget also remains on the docket.
WTIC's Dave Mager got a preview from the bill's sponsor, Sen. Gary Winfield (D-New Haven).