Lawmakers File Marijuana Bills In 'Island Of Prohibition' Indiana

Indiana lawmakers remain divided over marijuana legalization ahead of the 2023 session and debates continue to the statehouse.

As a local news outlet reported, state lawmakers recently filed a number of cannabis bills, during a legislative session.

"[I'm] very happy to discuss that. I do not believe that simple possession at certain limits should derail someone's life," said Gov. Eric Holcomb, who would be willing to talk about the decriminalization of cannabis even if he seems not to be in favor of legalizing it.

See Also: GOP Lawmaker In Tennessee Considers MMJ Legalization As Dems Draft New Bill

What Do The Bills Say?

House Bill 1039, sponsored by State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-South Bend), would allow adult cannabis possession after the plant will remove as a federal schedule I controlled substance.

It would also establish an excise marijuana tax.

"With the enactment of an executive order last week in Kentucky which allows Kentuckians to possess medical cannabis that is purchased legally in another state up to 8 ounces (...) Indiana has officially become an island of prohibition," said Teshka.

Senator Mike Bohacek (R-8th District) introduced Senate Bill 70, which would allow adult cannabis possession of one ounce or less.

He also introduced Senate Bill 82, which is related to intoxication and marijuana.

Rep. Sue Errington (D-34th District) introduced House Bill 1065, a measure that would establish the cannabis compliance advisory committee to review and evaluate certain rules, laws, and programs.

Last year, regulators in the Hoosier State agreed that more research on the potential health benefits and decriminalization of cannabis is required before taking any legislative action.

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Photo: Courtesy Of Steven Van Elk On Unsplash