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As out-of-staters throng recreational marijuana dispensaries in Massachusetts, state legislators across the Northeast are considering bills to legalize pot for personal use.
But it's uncertain whether any states will join Massachusetts this year, despite the support of several governors.
Here's what you need to know
New York: Opposition is mounting to Gov. Andrew Cuomo's push for legalization. Municipalities want the right to opt-out of hosting recreational dispensaries, while the legislation allows only counties or municipalities with more than 100,000 residents to ban the shops. There's also opposition to Cuomo's proposed ban in growing small numbers of marijuana plants for personal use.
LEGAL POT IN NY? No thanks, say doctors, teachers and police officers
Pennsylvania: The prospects for legalization got a boost in December when Gov. Tom Wolf, a Democrat, said it was "time for Pennsylvania to take a serious and honest look at recreational marijuana.” But a bill backed by Democrats faces strong opposition in the Republican-controlled state Legislature, where Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman, R-Centre, has vowed to do everything in his power to stop the bill.
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New Jersey: There was hope in 2018 that the state would legalize recreational pot after the election of Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, who saw a $60 million bounty from new taxes. But Murphy and the state legislature have yet to find common ground over recreational marijuana regulations and rules for expunging convictions for marijuana possession.
Connecticut: The state Legislature will take a serious look at legalization during its 2019 session, with Gov. Ned Lamont, a Democrat, backing the concept. Among the issues concerning lawmakers is how motorists who had consumed marijuana can be ticketed for driving under the influence. One bill would require a blood test.
Vermont: While possession of small amounts of marijuana is legal here, you still can't purchase it at a local dispensary. A bill before the legislature would regulate that market, with 20 percent tax. But critics want to make sure tax proceeds are used for prevention and education while others are concerned with laws governing those who use marijuana and then drive.
NEW YORKERS: Flock to Massachusetts for recreational pot
MEDICAL: Recreational pot plan in NY could change medical marijuana laws
NEW JERSEY: Poll favors legalization of recreational pot
Writers Nick Pugliese and and John McAlpin contributed to this report.
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