Western Connecticut State University has hosted a panel discussion about legalization of recreational marijuana in Connecticut.  Panel moderator, Law Professor Dr George Kain says students, community members, law enforcement members and legislators talked about the pros and cons last night.

Kain notes that Massachusetts legalizing recreational use will have an impact on Connecticut, regardless of what is done in this state.The state's budget woes may be making some lawmakers softer on the issue, but Kain called that a short-sighted approach.

One of the areas covered was taking possession out of the criminal justice system and treating it as a public health issue.  Kain says the criminal justice system is not equipped to handle the drug problem, and he suggested more treatment and intervention programs.