The Judiciary Committee approved three bills Monday that would legalize possession of cannabis for adults 21 and older and expunge prior drug convictions.
The 21-19 vote in favor of the general legalization bill came after a spirited, hour-long debate. At least three Democrats joined Republicans in opposing the bill, which now heads to the Senate.
The Judiciary Committee vote on three cannabis bills Monday comes a week after the General Law Committee narrowly approved a separate bill that establishes a regulatory framework for production and sale.
Connecticut already has a medical marijuana program that serves more than 33,000 patients.