AUGUSTA (AP) — Efforts to legalize and tax marijuana in Maine have suffered a setback after a legislative committee voted against the proposal.
The Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee on Tuesday voted 8-3 against endorsing the measure sponsored by Democratic state Rep. Diane Russell of Portland.
Supporters say legalizing recreational use of marijuana would bring the existing marijuana trade above board, and produce tax revenue and business income.
Several committee members noted the legislation would put Maine in conflict with federal laws that make marijuana illegal.
Medical marijuana is legal in Maine under certain conditions.
Russell’s bill calls for a statewide referendum on legalizing possession of small amounts of pot. It also proposes a licensing system and structure to collect taxes
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