Legalizing medical and recreational cannabis is a part of the Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus’ 2019 legislative agenda.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) – An Indiana lawmaker is pushing to legalize recreational marijuana.

State Senator Karen Tallian (D-Portage) filed two cannabis-related bills on Tuesday.

One bill would legalize recreational marijuana possession of less than two ounces, while the other would set up a Cannabis Compliance Commission.

“Since marijuana programs cannot be approved by a ballot initiative, it is up to the legislature to follow the will of the people,” said Tallian. “Support for legalizing and taxing cannabis is at an all-time high, and 10 states, as well as Washington, D.C., have already legalized marijuana for recreational use.”

Tallian says a Cannabis Compliance Commission would oversee state regulation of anything related to the sale, use or consumption of cannabis.

“We recently legalized the use of CBD oil and industrial hemp, but the state has no structure in place to make sure that these products are properly regulated for consumers”, said Tallain. “A Cannabis Compliance Commission would help provide for a stable and safe cannabis industry in the state. When Indiana legalizes medical or recreational marijuana, the structure will be in place.”

Tallian is expected to file another cannabis-related bill during the 2019 legislative session, which would allow Indiana to join 33 other states by creating a statewide medical marijuana program.