Bill would regulate and tax marijuana

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Local lawmakers are debating whether medical marijuana should be regulated and taxed in the Ocean State.

The House Judiciary Committee is hearing legislation that would regulate and tax marijuana in a way similar to alcohol. Supporters say the bill would generate much needed tax revenue, but opponents believe it could send the wrong message to children and actually increase usage among teens.

Meanwhile, a bill to ban synthetic marijuana and other man-made drugs is also on the table.

If passed, chemical compounds that mimic drugs like marijuana and amphetamines would be classified as 'schedule one controlled substances,' under Rhode Island law.

The proposal would also ban the sale of so called 'bath salts.'