BETHLEHEM, Pa. (WLVT) - Nearly 100 people showed up to voice their opinion on legalizing recreational marijuana at the ArtsQuest center in Bethlehem on Sunday evening.
Lt. Governor John Fetterman is halfway through his “Listening Tour,” in which he is traveling to all 67 counties in Pennsylvania to hear what residents think on the controversial subject of decriminalizing and legalizing recreational marijuana.
“I’ve learned so much,” said Lt. Gov. Fetterman. “One of the important things we’ve learned, so far, is there is near universal support for decriminalization.”
During the event, lines were formed for people to speak on whether they were for or against the idea. Some expressed concerns, asking what would happen to their current record if they have minor marijuana charges and it became legal for recreational use. Lt. Gov. Fetterman urged those people to apply for a pardon.
By a show of hands, majority of people on Sunday showed support for legalizing recreational marijuana in Pennsylvania.
Creative Strategist, Ed White, came to speak at the event to express his support for legalization. “I think it’s very important that we speak directly to our legislators and other elected officials, so that they get direct first-hand information on the opinions of their constituents,” said White.
PBS39 asked Lt. Gov. Fetterman for the next steps once the tour is complete. “The feedback will be consolidated into a report, and that’s going to be delivered to the governor, and it’s also going to be presented to the people of Pennsylvania,” said Lt. Gov. Fetterman.
He said all residents will be able to see how each county felt on the issue based on each listening session. “You’ll be able to click on every county in Pennsylvania and say, ‘Where was Northampton? Where was York? Where was Erie?’ and you’ll see for yourself a visual representation.”
If you want to see dates and locations for the rest of the tour, click
here. If you aren’t able to attend any of the listening sessions, you can click
here to submit your opinion online.
