The move is intended to shore up political support for implementing recreational marijuana rules, but advocates say it ignores the will of Maine voters.

At a hearing in Augusta, lawmakers hear several ideas for containing big caregiver operations while leaving small operators alone.

But U.S. Attorney Halsey Frank acknowledges that drug possession cases ‘have not been a priority.’

After being at odds for years, the groups offer a proposal that would favor medical marijuana providers, prohibit social clubs for 3 years and tax pot at 17.5 percent.

The tax-break program for businesses is set to end this year, but a pending bill would extend it to 2023, despite a legislative report raising concerns about a lack of accountability.