Indiana lawmakers to discuss cannabis this summer

INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana lawmakers will discuss cannabis this summer, including THC products already being legally sold in the Hoosier State and potential decriminalization of marijuana.

This comes amid a ramped-up effort by state Democrats and others to legalize marijuana in Indiana.

According to the agenda approved by legislative leaders from both parties, a summer study committee will focus on “delta-8, delta-9, and other THC products regarding potential health benefits, potential decriminalization, and other potential consequences.”

Delta-8 is a chemical compound derived from hemp, which was legalized federally in the 2018 farm bill and gives users a weaker high than delta-9, the chemical found in marijuana.

“We need to have a wholehearted discussion about cannabis, all forms of cannabis,” said Jason Straw, who has advocated for marijuana legalization for years as the chairman of Indiana NORML.

“There’s just a whole lot that we need to think about,” said State Rep. Terri Austin (D-Anderson), chair of the House Democratic Caucus.

Austin is among a bipartisan group of lawmakers who signed a letter asking legislative leaders to study the issue this summer. [Read More @ fox59]