INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WSBT) — Could Indiana be the next state to legalize marijuana?
That’s the question many are asking after a press conference held in Indianapolis Wednesday.
Several elected leaders from across the state joined the Safe and Regulated Coalition to announce the recently-filed HB 1630, which would regulate marijuana for those 21 years of age and older in Indiana.
Legislators behind the bill say, in the state, marijuana would have a similar market to alcohol or tobacco.
Several elected leaders from across the state joined the Safe and Regulated Coalition to announce the recently-filed HB 1630, which would regulate marijuana for those 21 years of age and older in Indiana. (WSBT video)
If enacted, this bill would make Indiana the first state in the country to bypass a medical only program, according to Rep. Heath VanNatter who authored the bill. VanNatter is a Republican representative from Howard County.
He says a growing number of his Republican colleagues are prepared to support the bill.
Other state leaders say safe and regulated marijuana has the ability to spark economic growth and have a positive impact on Indiana’s law enforcement by allowing police to focus their resources on violent crimes.
Most U.S. states already allow safe adult use of marijuana, including Indiana’s neighboring states, Michigan, Illinois and Ohio.
“It’s time,” said VanNatter, “It’s time to join our neighbors and most of the rest of the country in legalizing marijuana.”
The sudden push to add Indiana to the list comes just two days since Gov. Mike Braun took office.
“Hoosiers are reaching out, they’re asking for this,'” said State Rep. Jake Teshka, (R) St. Joseph County.
Teshka was also at Wednesday’s press conference.
When asked about his stance, he said he’s been an author or co-author on other bills promoting the conversation about cannabis in the past.
Teshka says he firmly believes that now is the time to be having these conversations, as Indiana has had a shift in leadership, specifically in the governor’s office.
Former Governor Eric Holcomb was opposed to the idea, but Teshka believes Governor Mike Braun will be open to it.
“We had a governor a few days ago that had said ‘absolutely not, no way are we going to do this,'” said Teshka, “And now we have a governor who is at least saying ‘I’m open to the conversation.'”
Teshka isn’t our only local representative who has voiced support for the issue.
Maureen Bauer, a Democrat who represents South Bend in the House, has been vocal on cannabis reform.
H/T: wsbt.com
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