A state Senate panel that took the unprecedented step in Pennsylvania of exploring the issue of legalizing recreational marijuana wrapped up its series of hearings last week amid complaints that it heard only one side of the issue. Sen. Judy Ward, R-Blair, said the issue represents a huge policy shift that deserves more vetting, including input from drug and alcohol professionals, chiefs of police, and representatives from the business community. “These hearings have been extensive,” Ms. Ward said at the conclusion of the Senate Law and Justice Committee hearing March 14. “But it only presented one side of the argument. There are many stakeholders who want and quite frankly deserve” to be heard. Committee Chairman Mike Regan, R-Cumberland/York, said no written testimony was turned away and all will be shared with committee members. But he added the hearings were intended to hear expert testimony that addressed certain questions he and other members had about what should be included in the bill and learn about best practices of the 18 states that have legalized adult-use cannabis. Mr. Regan has circulated a co-sponsor memo for a state Senate bill that would allow marijuana use by adults 21 and older.
420 Intel – Marijuana Industry News, 03/20/2022 20:00:00