In a special session Saturday at the Capitol, the Connecticut Senate passed legislation that
decriminalizes the possession of small amounts of marijuana.
Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman cast the deciding vote after an initial 18-18 tie.
Proponents for the bill said the legislation will help younger people arrested for marijuana possession avoid a criminal record that could potentially hurt their chances of finding a good job or being accepted into college.
Opponents say it sends the wrong message.
Under current law, possession of small amounts of marijuana is a misdemeanor.
The bill would make possession of less than half an ounce of marijuana punishable with a fine of $150 for a first offense and $200 to $500 for subsequent offenses. Anyone under 21 years old would face a 60-day driver's license suspension.
The bill will now head to the House of Representatives for final consideration.
