AUGUSTA – The Maine House of Representatives has rejected a bill that seeks to legalize marijuana for recreational use in the state.
The Democratic-controlled House voted 98-45 against the bill on Monday. It will now be considered by the Republican-controlled Senate.
The bill would allow people ages 21 and older to possess up to an ounce of marijuana and would set up a system to regulate and tax the drug. It would have to be approved by voters in a statewide election.
Two groups have already launched referendum drives to try to get marijuana legalization proposals on the ballot next year.
Supporters say that banning marijuana hasn’t worked and that the state should have more control over it. But opponents say they’re concerned about the health impacts of the drug.
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