West Hartford Mayor Calling For Local Cannabis Rules

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Following Governor Ned Lamont signing legislation earlier n the day legalizing recreational cannabis, West Hartford Mayor Shari Cantor announced that she was introducing a suspense resolution at Tuesday night’s Town Council meeting directing the town manager to study and make recommendations on local regulations for the safe and responsible adult-use and sale of cannabis in West Hartford.

Cantor praised Lamont for signing the bill.

"The criminalization of cannabis has created a dangerous, unregulated market that has led to
systematic discrimination, and I praise the General Assembly and Governor Lamont for finally
ending the injustice of cannabis prohibition," Cantor said.

Senate Bill 1201 provides municipalities with authority to adopt local rules and regulations
concerning a broad range of issues related to recreational cannabis, including, but not limited to:

• Restricting zoning
• Charging retailers for certain public safety expenses
• Establishing fines for smoking cannabis in outdoor sections of restaurants

Cantor said the matter requires careful, proactive study.

"It is critical that, to the extent allowed under state law, West Hartford adopt local cannabis
regulations that prioritize public health, public safety, social justice, and equity," Cantor said.

West Hartford Town Manager Matt Hart welcomed the move.

"The mayor and the Council are to be commended for their proactive approach to this issue," he said. "Social equity, public safety, and public health are top priorities for the town. Town staff and I will review the issue in a comprehensive manner, consulting with our key stakeholders, to develop recommendations for the Council’s consideration."