Democratic candidate Jennifer McCormick has proposed a plan to establish a medical marijuana industry in Indiana before transitioning to full adult-use cannabis if elected governor. The plan aims to address the frustrations of Hoosiers with the state’s outdated prohibition laws by implementing a well-regulated medical marijuana industry first. McCormick’s opponent, Republican Mike Braun, has offered a plan on property taxes but has not shared any other proposals. Many conservatives in the General Assembly remain opposed to legalization, despite efforts from both Democrats and some Republicans.
McCormick’s plan includes the establishment of the Indiana Cannabis Commission to oversee the legal cannabis industry, setting up a regulated medical marijuana industry, and eventually transitioning to full adult-use legalization. The plan also addresses the regulation of hemp-derived THC products and highlights the economic benefits of legalizing adult-use cannabis for Indiana, potentially generating $172 million in tax revenues annually.
As neighboring states such as Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Kentucky have already legalized either medical or recreational marijuana, McCormick believes that Indiana needs to take a responsible and phased approach to prepare for full adult-use legalization. The plan aims to provide relief through medical marijuana while ensuring that the state is ready to regulate the cannabis market effectively. The story will be updated with more details and reactions to McCormick’s proposal.
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