Lawmakers eye consensus on pot bill, but differences remain

BOSTON (AP) - — State lawmakers say they're hopeful that a compromise can be reached on proposals to overhaul the state's voter-approved recreational marijuana law.

But significant differences remained Monday between House and Senate members of the Marijuana Policy Committee. Taxes and local control over retail pot shops are among the key sticking points.

The House bill sets a 28 percent tax on marijuana sales while the Senate would hold the rate at 12 percent.

While the two chambers could split the difference on taxes, finding agreement on municipal control might be tougher. The House wants to give local elected officials the power to ban pot shops, while the Senate favors requiring a voter referendum.

Democratic Rep. Mark Cusack, the House chair of the marijuana committee, says he has "no doubt" compromise is possible.

Associated Press