Recreational marijuana now legal in Connecticut as government signs law

By Jelena Martinovic

Connecticut is just the 18th state in the Union to legalize recreational marijuana and the 4th only this year Governor Ned Lamont signed the law on Tuesday.

The law, which allows adults 21 and older to possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis, goes into effect July 1, and recreational marijuana sales are slated to begin in May 2022.

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Finally signed

The long process was not without conflict, and many held their breath in hopes that the legalization law would reach the governor’s desk unscathed.

“People have been working on it for 10 years,” said Lamont. “It was long in sight. I think we have a good bill that puts public health first.”

Lamont said more work needs to be done to achieve social justice, but he is satisfied with the law he has just signed.

RELATED: Connecticut Marijuana Legalization Bill Sent to Governor’s Desk After Days of Fierce Debate

“History will tell us whether this is true or not, but I am confident that this is the best bill in the country and will move us in the direction of making sure we have a well-regulated marketplace for adult cannabis. who want to take part in this type of activity, ”said Lamont.

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“It’s important to do on multiple fronts. Number one in terms of justice and social justice. I think it’s a model for the rest of the nation. We had the chance to learn from others, ”added the governor.

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The bill was originally introduced by House Speaker Matt Ritter (D) and Senate President Martin Looney (D). “I think it will be the most comprehensive and best law to legalize cannabis in the country,” House Majority Leader Jason Rojas (D) said at the small signing ceremony, reports Marijuana Moment.

Speaking of social justice – another bill signed

Connecticut hit the headlines last week when it became the first state to make all prison phone calls free after Governor Lamont signed the law, helping incarcerated men and women and their families stay in touch.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and was republished with permission.