The state House Republican leader says it’s still possible lawmakers will vote on legalizing marijuana in Michigan. But, he says it is unlikely.

Rick Pluta reports on how a vote on the legalization of marijuana by the Michigan Legislature still seems unlikely.

A petition drive put the question to legalize marijuana before the Legislature, which must approve it within 40 days, or the issue goes on the November ballot.

State House Speaker Tom Leonard at first ruled out a vote by lawmakers, but says it’s not settled yet.

“At this point, I don’t anticipate it coming up for a vote, but if members have a change of heart, they can certainly let me know.”

Legislative approval would make it easier to adopt changes to the law in the future. Some Republicans are also concerned a marijuana proposal on the ballot could drive up Democratic turnout in November.

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— Rick Pluta is the Managing Editor and Reporter for the Michigan Public Radio network. Contact WEMU News at 734.487.3363 or email us at studio@wemu.org