Lawmakers discuss drug tax collection

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - Connecticut lawmakers will be discussing legislation that could allow cities and towns to collect revenue from the controlled substance tax after a drug dealer is arrested.

Rep. Arthur O'Neill, a Republican from Southbury, said he wants to expand the current controlled substance tax and allow towns to financially benefit from drug arrests.

O'Neill said the bill looks to target large amounts of marijuana or other drugs and could act as an incentive for local police departments to arrest more dealers.

O'Neill said he has been working with Sen. Robert Kane, a Republican from Watertown, on this issue for several years.

The controlled substance tax was enacted in October 1991. Revenues are now deposited in the state's General Fund.

The Planning and Development Committee will discuss the bill on Friday.