Pennsylvania Lt. Governor John Fetterman brought his 67-county recreational marijuana legalization tour to Bethlehem April 7, drawing about 150 to the ArtsQuest Center.

Fetterman has been soliciting feedback from Pennsylvania residents.

“It’s an issue people feel very passionate about for and against,” Fetterman said as he established ground rules for the 90-minute session in which residents could state their case, and nearly two dozen did.

Fetterman was joined on stage by Pa. Senator Lisa Boscola (D-18) and Easton Mayor Sal Panto.

Speakers stated their support and opposition with some calling marijuana a gateway drug and others declaring that alcohol and tobacco were the true gateway drugs, and that they were legal.

“Look at science and examine the conduct “of those who use it, suggested attendee Ed White.

Several with chronic health conditions appeared to express their support citing the health benefits they’ve already derived.

The issue of decriminalization gained support as well, and even drew a local candidate for Northampton County District Attorney, Tom Carroll, who stated his support for criminal justice system reform to allow for for it.

Attendee Benjamin Sell related his experience with the criminal justice system when he was arrested carrying 0.7 grams of marijuana.

One suggestion has recreational marijuana being distributed in a Commonwealth system much like the Liquor Control Board with revenue going to law enforcement and public infrastructure.

A Kutztown University student noted that studies conducted in states where marijuana has been legalized do not paint a picture of social and economic issues as a result of legalization, and he felt proper education helps mitigate effects of marijuana’s use.

“I think we can all learn a lot from Colorado,” said another legalization supporter noting a state where it has already been legalized.

A nurse named Amy related that she’s never treated someone for cannabis overdose, but that she had multiple times for alcohol.

Another supporter said that in states where marijuana has been legalized there is 25 percent less opioid abuse.

A few opposed legalization, with one speaker considering more drivers operating vehicles under the influence as a major flaw and another in opposition agreeing that decriminalization would be okay.

At the conclusion, Fetterman asked for a show of hands from those who supported legalization, those who opposed it, and those who were undecided. A vast majority present supported legalization.

Fetterman informed those attending that in addition to the public listening sessions, a survey is available at governor.pa.gov.