AUGUSTA

A bill to legalize recreational use of marijuana and regulate it like alcohol in Maine has garnered 35 co-sponsors and now heads to a legislative committee hearing.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Diane Russell, D-Portland, would make major changes in Maine’s drug law, ranging from making possession of up to 2.5 ounces of pot legal to imposing a tax of $50 per ounce. It was referred to the Legislature’s Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee on Wednesday.

Russell and Republican Rep. Aaron Libby of Waterboro, a co-sponsor, publicized use at the federal level, regulating it as alcohol.

DeChant said constituent Peter Alexander of Bath approached her about the issue.

“I am interested in learning more about it, and have not decided one way or the other,” she said.

DeChant will act as moderator at Saturday’s forum.

“Several states have decriminalized marijuana, and now Maine is faced with the issue,” she said. “This forum is to provide an opportunity for people to learn more about the pros and cons of this issue.”

Speakers will include state Rep. Diane Russell, D-Portland, who sponsored the bill. Sagadahoc County Sheriff Joel Merry will discuss opposition. Eric Haram, director of outpatient behavioral health for Mid Coast Hospital, will provide an overview of the business side of the current law on medical marijuana, and its implementation.

A referendum vote on legalized pot could come as soon as this November, DeChant said.

“We have assembled a panel for thoughtful discussion of the intent of the law and to explore some of the possible unintended consequences that we should consider,” DeChant said. “Ultimately, if the bill passes the Legislature, the people of Maine will have a chance to vote on it, and this community forum is a first step in that consideration.”

Alexander, a singer/songwriter, says that legalizing pot would solve many problems.

“Incarcerating people for nonviolent drug offenses is incredibly costly — about $13 million per year in Maine alone — and the cost of ruined lives and traumatized families cannot even be estimated,” Alexander said. “Regulating and taxing marijuana solves a lot of problems and will generate revenues instead of costing taxpayers millions each year.”

Merry adds a cautionary note.

“The idea of legalizing the possession and recreational use of marijuana has some far-reaching consequences that will affect our communities,” Merry said. “This issue is likely to end up in referendum and it is necessary for our citizens to be informed as to the implications of legalizing marijuana. The real concern here is that use of the drug could become even more prevalent.”

lgrard@timesrecord.com