Connecticut bill would allow police officers to pull a vehicle over if they both see the driver using cannabis and smell its “burnt odor”
As always, thanks to local independent news outlets across the country for providing actual detailed reporting about what is happening on the ground. Here’s the latest from two publications that we always look to in their respective states for the latest developments in cannabis policy and more …
From “Police chiefs ask lawmakers to allow vehicle stops for cannabis use” via CT Mirror:
The police chiefs are asking lawmakers to pass legislation that would allow law enforcement officers to pull people over for consuming cannabis while driving. The bill would also call for a study to establish a maximum blood-THC level for people operating motor vehicles.
Although it’s illegal to drive while under the influence of cannabis, current law says police officers can’t stop a vehicle solely because a driver is using the substance.
From “Speculation over New Hampshire’s 2026 Senate race erupts after Shaheen leaves it wide open” via the New Hampshire Bulletin:
After U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen announced she wouldn’t seek reelection in mid-March after almost two decades representing New Hampshire, multiple Granite State politicos quickly jumped into action to position themselves as frontrunners in the race to replace her.
U.S. Rep. Chris Pappas, a Democrat representing New Hampshire’s 1st Congressional District in the House, is openly considering a run for the seat and has embarked on a 10-county listening tour of the state.
The Lugar Center ranked Pappas as the most bipartisan Democrat in Congress in 2023. Some of his most notable moves as congressman involved crossing the aisle to vote with Republicans, such as when he opposed the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act — which would’ve legalized marijuana federally.
