BOSTON (AP) — Marijuana would be taxed and regulated like alcohol under a bill being backed by more than a dozen Massachusetts lawmakers.
The bill would let adults 21 years or older to possess and grow limited amounts of marijuana.
The proposal would also create a regulated system of licensed marijuana retail stores, cultivation facilities, processing facilities and testing facilities.
The bill is being pushed by the Marijuana Policy Project. The group says it plans to put a question on the 2016 ballot to regulate and tax marijuana if the bill fails to win support on Beacon Hill.
The bill is sponsored by two Democrats — Rep. David Rogers of Belmont and Sen. Pat Jehlen of Somerville. It’s co-sponsored by 13 other lawmakers.
Voters have already approved two previous pro-marijuana ballot questions.
“Marijuana is less harmful than alcohol to the consumer and to society, and it ought to be treated that way,” said Matt Simon, New England Political director for the Marijuana Policy Project. “There is a mountain of evidence demonstrating marijuana is less addictive than alcohol, less toxic, and less likely to contribute to violent and reckless behavior. Adults shouldn’t be punished for making the safer choice.”
The Marijuana Policy Project plans to support a 2016 ballot initiative to regulate and tax marijuana like alcohol if the legislature fails to pass such a measure sooner.
“Voters in Massachusetts are ready to end marijuana prohibition,” Simon said. “We hope their elected officials are, too. If the status quo is maintained in the legislature, change will occur at the ballot box.”
Marijuana is legal for adults and is being regulated and taxed similarly to alcohol in Colorado and Washington. Alaska and Oregon are in the process of implementing similar laws. Lawmakers in 18 states (in addition to Massachusetts) and the District of Columbia are considering or expected to consider similar legislation this year.
