Connecticut becomes 19th state to legalize recreational use of marijuana

Connecticut's governor on Tuesday signed a bill legalizing the recreational use of marijuana, making his state the 19th to do so. The bill also erases certain marijuana-related convictions and reserves business licenses for people in communities impacted by the war on drugs.

"For decades, the war on cannabis caused injustices and created disparities while doing little to protect public health and safety," Governor Ned Lamont said in a statement. "The law that I signed today begins to right some of those wrongs by creating a comprehensive framework for a regulated market that prioritizes public health, public safety, criminal justice, and equity." Beginning July 1, people who are 21 years old and older can legally possess up to 1.5 ounces and up to 5 ounces stored at home or locked in their car. Retail sales are expected to begin by the end of 2022, the governor's office said.