State lawmakers representing parts of Bartholomew County are divided on a Republican-backed effort seeking to legalize recreational marijuana in Indiana.
The effort, led by an organization called Safe and Regulated Indiana, seeks to "tax and regulate marijuana for adults ages 21 and up, just like alcohol." The organization is backed by former Indiana Republican Party Executive Director and current Marion County GOP Chair Joe Elsener.
"Legalizing adult-use marijuana in Indiana means safer communities, increased tax revenue, and job creation," the organization said last week in a Facebook post. "It's time to regulate marijuana, ensuring quality and safety for consumers."
Currently, recreational use of marijuana is legal in 24 states — including neighboring Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio — and the District of Columbia, even though it remains illegal under federal law, according to The Associated Press. Medical use of marijuana will become legal in Kentucky starting Jan. 1.
Read more at The Republic