Citing public safety concerns, Republicans in the New Hampshire Senate Judiciary Committee voted against a House-passed bill Tuesday that would legalize adult possession of up to two ounces of marijuana.

The 3-2 vote on House Bill 198 further dims prospects that New Hampshire will join surrounding states anytime soon in allowing possession of small amounts of the drug for recreational use without penalty.

The measure now goes to the Republican-controlled Senate. Republican Gov. Kelly Ayotte is opposed to legalization.

Under current state law, possession of up to three-quarters of an ounce is a citation-level offense, similar to a speeding ticket. Possession of larger amounts remains a criminal offense. Licensed treatment centers are allowed to sell the drug to treat specific illnesses.