Maine pro-marijuana groups fight in divide familiar in states with legalization drives

Two sparring Maine pro-marijuana groups are gearing up for spring petition drives that would ask residents whether to make pot legal for recreational use in the state.

Marijuana Policy Project is working on one drive. The group led successful legalization efforts at the city level in Portland and South Portland and is the largest group in the country that is solely dedicated to reforming marijuana laws. The group wants to create a taxed, government-regulated marijuana industry in Maine.

The other group is called Legalize Maine, and members describe it as a more homegrown alternative. Legalize Maine wants Maine residents to get preferential treatment when the state hands out licenses to grow and sell marijuana for recreational use.