[420 Girl]

A state senator says that legalizing or lessening criminal penalties for marijuana may be one way to curb overcrowding in Arkansas' prisons.

Sen. Randy Laverty, a Democrat from Jasper, said Thursday he wanted to wait for legislative research and data from the Department of Correction before he decides whether to sponsor legislation to lessen or eliminate criminal penalties for the drug.

Laverty said at a legislative hearing this week that there should be debate about legalization after asking prison officials how many inmates are in jail on marijuana offenses. Laverty suggested that those using the drug for medical purposes shouldn't be punished.

Laverty said he wouldn't consider sponsoring any proposals on the issue until the 2011 session.

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