“We’re going to vet things carefully,” said Rep. Della Au Belatti, the House majority leader. “I do think that recreational cannabis is something that is coming but I also think that we have enough folks who are sitting around the table who are saying ‘Let’s do it right. Let’s not just rush into things and let’s do it right.’”

Belatti said lawmakers will have to closely study the experiences of states that have already legalized marijuana. She also wants to have abuse prevention, treatment and education programs set up before legalization. Hawaii also will have to make sure legalized marijuana doesn’t lead to more impaired driving, she said.

For now, Belatti said she’s just inclined toward decriminalizing marijuana, or reducing fines and criminal penalties for possession.

(3/1/19)

Email: repbelatti@capitol.hawaii.gov

Web: https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/legislature/memberpage.aspx?member=7&year=2023

Phone: 808-586-9425