On Tuesday, March 6, State Representative Vincent Candelora (R, District 86) joined opponents of H.B. 5314, legislation that would legalize marijuana for adult recreational use in Connecticut.  Rep. Candelora represents the communities of Durham, Guilford, North Branford and Wallingford.

Nearly 60 individuals ranging from public health experts, prevention, medical, education and law enforcement professionals, businesses and industry and youth groups joined forces to form the StopPotCT Coalition.

On March 6, members of the coalition urged legislators, businesses and communities to unite to oppose legalization of marijuana for recreational use and consider the growing number of problems that will arise as a result of the legalization of marijuana.

The StopPotCT Coalition was formed in 2016, but gained momentum this year, but gained momentum this year, which some believe to be a result of Massachusetts successful legalization efforts.

A shared concern amongst many in the Coalition is the potential public safety issues, including impaired driving, increases in number of car crashes associated with use of marijuana and other public safety issues.

"The legislature is looking at the legalization of marijuana for recreational use as a revenue source and we need to move away from that idea," said Candelora. "I fear that legalizing marijuana would inadvertently create the perception for children that 'if it is acceptable for adult use, then it's okay for me too,' and entice children to use marijuana more than they already do today," said Candelora. "Connecticut cannot seek to solve our fiscal problems by damaging the intellects of our youth."

Candelora spoke at the press conference held on March 6 at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford along with speakers from AAA, CT Construction Industries Association, Guilford Day Youth Coalition, Yale School of Medicine, American Academy of Pediatrics and others.

Visit the StopPotCT website here