Dozens of people both for and against recreational marijuana came out to Penn State DuBois Thursday to voice their opinions on whether the state should legalize it.
Lt. Gov. John Fetterman is visiting all 67 counties in Pennsylvania on his recreational marijuana legalization tour.
“It’s really important that in our divided, polarized state of political affairs you’re in the same room with people you may not agree with and you hear what their views are,” Fetterman said.
Most people who spoke at Thursday’s town hall were for legalization.
“It’s been a long time coming, I never thought this day would come,” supporter Charles Weierick said. “I’ve been a marijuana advocate for over four decades, I’d like to see it legalized.”
Some shared personal stories, others said it would benefit the entire state.
“In terms of economical advancements, Pennsylvania faces extremely large debt, we are severely underfunded in many local programs,” supporter Jessica Clontz said. “If we could tax this and possibly gain more funding in that respect.”
The few who spoke against it called marijuana a gateway drug, and said they’ve experienced the negative effects it can have first hand.
“I spent 16 years in the department of corrections, surrounded by thousands of people whose lives have been totally wrecked by this stuff,” State Rep. Cris Dush (R, District 66) said. “People lose their ambition, they lose their willingness to support their families.”
For those who can’t be attend a listening tour stop, a form can be found on the governor’s website to submit feedback.
Fetterman’s next stop will be in Cambria County Tuesday, February 26 at 6 p.m. at Pennsylvania Highlands Community College.