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Republican legislative leaders expressed continued opposition to any sort of legalization of marijuana in the near future.
Lauren Chapman/IPB NewsMarijuana legalization in any form is still extremely unlikely in Indiana next year, despite a renewed push from Democrats on the issue.
The Indiana Democratic Party and the Indiana House Democratic caucus announced their full support of legalization. The Indiana Senate Democratic caucus has long backed movement on the issue – whether for medical use or through decriminalization.
Senate Democratic Leader Greg Taylor (D-Indianapolis) said as more states get on board, Indiana can’t keep stalling.
"Some of you might have read an article that said 60 percent of the people who are buying cannabis in the southern portion of Michigan come from Indiana," Taylor said. "It’s here."
READ MORE: How do I follow Indiana’s legislative session? Here’s your guide to demystify the process
Sen. Mark Messmer threw cold water on legalization in the near future.
“I mean, it’s an issue that does poll well with the public but there’s still conflicting federal statutes that make it a little difficult to bring forward,” Messmer said.
As an example, Messmer cited issues with federally-backed banks being unable to work with businesses involved in marijuana.
Contact reporter Brandon at bsmith@ipbs.org or follow him on Twitter at @brandonjsmith5.
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