Connecticut became the 19th state to legalize recreational use of marijuana Tuesday, when Gov. Ned Lamont signed a highly anticipated bill which hopes to address racial inequities stemming from the nation’s war on drugs.

“We had a chance to learn from others, and I think we’ve got it right here in the state of Connecticut,” said Lamont, referring to the multiyear effort to finally pass a legalization bill during a ceremony at the state capital.

“Maybe we weren’t the first but we were the first, I think, to show that we can get it right,” he said. 

People age 21 and older will be allowed to possess and consume marijuana beginning on July