http://news.nuggetry.com Sat, 25 May 2013 14:37:08 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-world/organization-of-the-american-states-suggests-marijuana-policy-change/ http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-world/organization-of-the-american-states-suggests-marijuana-policy-change/#comments Sat, 18 May 2013 13:04:23 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4578 The 400 page report summarizes current knowledge and policies regarding marijuana.  It suggests a number of approaches to rethinking marijuana policy, including full legalization. The report said that "the drug problem requires a flexible approach."  It added, "It would be worthwhile to assess existing signals and trends that lead toward the decriminalization or legalization of the production, sale and use of marijuana.  Sooner or later decisions in this area will need to be taken.  On the other hand, our report finds no significant support, in any country, for the decriminalization of legalization of trafficking other illicit drugs." Ethan Nadelmann, executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance, responded to the report stating, "This takes the debate to a whole other level.  It effectively breaks the taboo on considering alternatives to the current prohibitionist approach."   [Source]]]> The 400 page report summarizes current knowledge and policies regarding marijuana.  It suggests a number of approaches to rethinking marijuana policy, including full legalization. The report said that "the drug problem requires a flexible approach."  It added, "It would be worthwhile to assess existing signals and trends that lead toward the decriminalization or legalization of the production, sale and use of marijuana.  Sooner or later decisions in this area will need to be taken.  On the other hand, our report finds no significant support, in any country, for the decriminalization of legalization of trafficking other illicit drugs." Ethan Nadelmann, executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance, responded to the report stating, "This takes the debate to a whole other level.  It effectively breaks the taboo on considering alternatives to the current prohibitionist approach."   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-world/organization-of-the-american-states-suggests-marijuana-policy-change/feed/ 6 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-possession-decriminalized-in-vermont/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-possession-decriminalized-in-vermont/#comments Tue, 14 May 2013 13:30:56 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4546 Yesterday, Vermont's legislature voted to decriminalize possession of up to one ounce of marijuana, making low level possession a civil infraction rather than an arrestable offense. Governor Peter Shumlin has strongly supported decriminalization in the past and is expected to sign the bill into law.  On Instagram he wrote, "Decriminalizing small amounts of marijuana will allow courts and law enforcement to focus limited resources more effectively to fight highly addictive drugs that tear apart families and communities." In April, a Pew Research Center Opinion Poll showed that a majority of Americans support marijuana legalization.  Vermont already has a medical marijuana program in place, and now becomes the 17th state to decriminalize marijuana, making it one of the leaders in marijuana policy reform.   [Source]]]> Yesterday, Vermont's legislature voted to decriminalize possession of up to one ounce of marijuana, making low level possession a civil infraction rather than an arrestable offense. Governor Peter Shumlin has strongly supported decriminalization in the past and is expected to sign the bill into law.  On Instagram he wrote, "Decriminalizing small amounts of marijuana will allow courts and law enforcement to focus limited resources more effectively to fight highly addictive drugs that tear apart families and communities." In April, a Pew Research Center Opinion Poll showed that a majority of Americans support marijuana legalization.  Vermont already has a medical marijuana program in place, and now becomes the 17th state to decriminalize marijuana, making it one of the leaders in marijuana policy reform.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-possession-decriminalized-in-vermont/feed/ 3 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-decriminalization-stands-in-grand-rapids-michigan/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-decriminalization-stands-in-grand-rapids-michigan/#comments Tue, 07 May 2013 14:35:49 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4495 On Monday, Kent County, Mi. judge Paul Sullivan ruled that Grand Rapids' voter-approved marijuana decriminalization amendment is valid.  Judge Sullivan also dismissed Kent County Prosecutor William Forsyth's attempt to nullify the amendment. Based on Sullivan's ruling, possession of under an ounce of marijuana will still be considered a civil infraction in Grand Rapids, rather than a misdemeanor crime.  Even prior to Sullivan's ruling, Grand Rapids police had been honoring the amendment and writing civil infractions for low level marijuana possession starting on May 1. Forsyth had argued that marijuana decriminalization conflicted with state laws that define marijuana possession as a misdemeanor.  He also said that the new amendment would make it difficult for him to fulfill his responsibilities as county prosecutor. Sullivan wrote in his ruling, "The voters of Grand Rapids had the power to amend the city charter and plaintiff has failed to show that any section of the charter amendment necessarily conflicts with state law.  It is still a crime for one to possess, control, use or give away marijuana in Grand Rapids.  The charter amendment merely creates a civil infraction in the city and directs the city's police resources away from some of these laws."   [Source]]]> On Monday, Kent County, Mi. judge Paul Sullivan ruled that Grand Rapids' voter-approved marijuana decriminalization amendment is valid.  Judge Sullivan also dismissed Kent County Prosecutor William Forsyth's attempt to nullify the amendment. Based on Sullivan's ruling, possession of under an ounce of marijuana will still be considered a civil infraction in Grand Rapids, rather than a misdemeanor crime.  Even prior to Sullivan's ruling, Grand Rapids police had been honoring the amendment and writing civil infractions for low level marijuana possession starting on May 1. Forsyth had argued that marijuana decriminalization conflicted with state laws that define marijuana possession as a misdemeanor.  He also said that the new amendment would make it difficult for him to fulfill his responsibilities as county prosecutor. Sullivan wrote in his ruling, "The voters of Grand Rapids had the power to amend the city charter and plaintiff has failed to show that any section of the charter amendment necessarily conflicts with state law.  It is still a crime for one to possess, control, use or give away marijuana in Grand Rapids.  The charter amendment merely creates a civil infraction in the city and directs the city's police resources away from some of these laws."   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-decriminalization-stands-in-grand-rapids-michigan/feed/ 1 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/bipartisan-support-shown-for-marijuana-decriminalizaton-in-michigan/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/bipartisan-support-shown-for-marijuana-decriminalizaton-in-michigan/#comments Thu, 25 Apr 2013 14:50:02 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4397 The bill would make possession of up to an ounce of marijuana a civil infraction rather than a misdemeanor.  Low level marijuana possession would be punished by a fine rather than jail time.  The fine for a first offense would be $25, followed by fines of $50 for a second offense and $75 for a third offense. Irwin represents Ann Arbor, which enacted marijuana decriminalization over ten years ago.  During a press conference at the Capitol on Wednesday, Irwin said, "We know, and the people here in Michigan know, that marijuana prohibition is not working.  Despite the fact that we're spending a minimum of $325 million a year on arresting, trying and incarcerating marijuana users in this state, we know marijuana has never been more available.  We know that law enforcement has not been successful at keeping marijuana out of the hands of anyone in this state." Shirkey added that he signed on to the bill because he would like to help guarantee bipartisan support.  However, he did say that he would like the language of the bill to be changed to differentiate between adult and minor possession.  He told the press, "This is the right time to have this debate in Michigan.  We're using a lot of money, energy and resources in Michigan and across the nation to accomplish something we've failed at.  If government has a primary role, it is to protect people's freedom.  That doesn't mean we have unfettered freedom... but the best government, by and large, is a smaller, less restraining government." Irwin expects to face resistance from law enforcement officials, but is hopeful that officers who face drug crimes every day may be more open to the legislation than their bosses, who have not been on the front lines in quite a while. It is unclear whether the legislation will ever even make it to a vote.  According to House GOP spokesperson Ari Adler, there are currently other priorities which are above marijuana decriminalization.  Adler told the press, "It will go through the committee process, but we're not going to close the door on having the discussion.  There are a lot of important issues that we have to deal with first."   [Source]]]> The bill would make possession of up to an ounce of marijuana a civil infraction rather than a misdemeanor.  Low level marijuana possession would be punished by a fine rather than jail time.  The fine for a first offense would be $25, followed by fines of $50 for a second offense and $75 for a third offense. Irwin represents Ann Arbor, which enacted marijuana decriminalization over ten years ago.  During a press conference at the Capitol on Wednesday, Irwin said, "We know, and the people here in Michigan know, that marijuana prohibition is not working.  Despite the fact that we're spending a minimum of $325 million a year on arresting, trying and incarcerating marijuana users in this state, we know marijuana has never been more available.  We know that law enforcement has not been successful at keeping marijuana out of the hands of anyone in this state." Shirkey added that he signed on to the bill because he would like to help guarantee bipartisan support.  However, he did say that he would like the language of the bill to be changed to differentiate between adult and minor possession.  He told the press, "This is the right time to have this debate in Michigan.  We're using a lot of money, energy and resources in Michigan and across the nation to accomplish something we've failed at.  If government has a primary role, it is to protect people's freedom.  That doesn't mean we have unfettered freedom... but the best government, by and large, is a smaller, less restraining government." Irwin expects to face resistance from law enforcement officials, but is hopeful that officers who face drug crimes every day may be more open to the legislation than their bosses, who have not been on the front lines in quite a while. It is unclear whether the legislation will ever even make it to a vote.  According to House GOP spokesperson Ari Adler, there are currently other priorities which are above marijuana decriminalization.  Adler told the press, "It will go through the committee process, but we're not going to close the door on having the discussion.  There are a lot of important issues that we have to deal with first."   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/bipartisan-support-shown-for-marijuana-decriminalizaton-in-michigan/feed/ 0 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-poll-shows-34-of-washington-dc-residents-support-marijuana-decriminalization/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-poll-shows-34-of-washington-dc-residents-support-marijuana-decriminalization/#comments Wed, 17 Apr 2013 16:02:51 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4338 Additionally, the poll found that 64% of DC residents support the decriminalization of growing up to three marijuana plants.  The same percentage of voters support full marijuana legalization for individuals age 21 and older. Strong public support for marijuana reform signals that a ballot initiative may be coming to DC in 2014.  However, earlier this year DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson expressed concern that any sort of marijuana decriminalization legislation would cause Congress to come down on the city.  Similar backlash occurred in 1998 after medical marijuana was legalized there. In response to the poll, Drug Policy Alliance director Bill Piper stated, "DC voters clearly want to end the failed war on drugs.  Decriminalizing marijuana is a no-brainer, but the Council should do more.  There's an opportunity to make a clean break from the past and treat drug use as a health issue instead of a criminal justice issue.  More access to treatment and health services.  No more putting people in jail." Medical marijuana was legalized in Washington DC in 1998, and their program, including the opening of medical marijuana collectives, is finally expected to be fully established in the coming weeks.   [Source]]]> Additionally, the poll found that 64% of DC residents support the decriminalization of growing up to three marijuana plants.  The same percentage of voters support full marijuana legalization for individuals age 21 and older. Strong public support for marijuana reform signals that a ballot initiative may be coming to DC in 2014.  However, earlier this year DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson expressed concern that any sort of marijuana decriminalization legislation would cause Congress to come down on the city.  Similar backlash occurred in 1998 after medical marijuana was legalized there. In response to the poll, Drug Policy Alliance director Bill Piper stated, "DC voters clearly want to end the failed war on drugs.  Decriminalizing marijuana is a no-brainer, but the Council should do more.  There's an opportunity to make a clean break from the past and treat drug use as a health issue instead of a criminal justice issue.  More access to treatment and health services.  No more putting people in jail." Medical marijuana was legalized in Washington DC in 1998, and their program, including the opening of medical marijuana collectives, is finally expected to be fully established in the coming weeks.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-poll-shows-34-of-washington-dc-residents-support-marijuana-decriminalization/feed/ 0 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/vermont-house-shows-support-for-marijuana-decriminalization/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/vermont-house-shows-support-for-marijuana-decriminalization/#comments Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:41:19 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4321 The bill will now go to another vote in the House on Tuesday before heading to the Senate.  It is likely that some amendments will be made to the bill before the next House vote. The bill would make possession of an ounce or less of a marijuana a civil offense, punishable by a fine of up to $300.  Under Vermont's current laws, individuals caught with that amount of marijuana could be jailed for up to 6 months and required to pay a $500 fine. Supporters of the bill believe that those caught with small amounts of marijuana should not be subject to penalties that have the potential to change the course of their entire life.  Having marijuana on your criminal record could potentially disqualify you from federal student loans, housing, and employment. Those who spoke out in opposition to the bill cited police agencies' efforts to try to stop marijuana decriminalization.  Others are concerned that decriminalization sends a confusing message to the state's children.  Representative Tom Stevens, however, saw the situation differently.  "The message I've sent to my children is this: Purchase and use of marijuana is illegal.  If you are caught, there are consequences," he said.  "The message the state sends today is that we will show compassion toward initial offenders, but only for a while." Low level marijuana possession has been decriminalized in fourteen states so far.   [Source]]]> The bill will now go to another vote in the House on Tuesday before heading to the Senate.  It is likely that some amendments will be made to the bill before the next House vote. The bill would make possession of an ounce or less of a marijuana a civil offense, punishable by a fine of up to $300.  Under Vermont's current laws, individuals caught with that amount of marijuana could be jailed for up to 6 months and required to pay a $500 fine. Supporters of the bill believe that those caught with small amounts of marijuana should not be subject to penalties that have the potential to change the course of their entire life.  Having marijuana on your criminal record could potentially disqualify you from federal student loans, housing, and employment. Those who spoke out in opposition to the bill cited police agencies' efforts to try to stop marijuana decriminalization.  Others are concerned that decriminalization sends a confusing message to the state's children.  Representative Tom Stevens, however, saw the situation differently.  "The message I've sent to my children is this: Purchase and use of marijuana is illegal.  If you are caught, there are consequences," he said.  "The message the state sends today is that we will show compassion toward initial offenders, but only for a while." Low level marijuana possession has been decriminalized in fourteen states so far.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/vermont-house-shows-support-for-marijuana-decriminalization/feed/ 3 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-decriminalization-takes-effect-monday-in-rhode-island/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-decriminalization-takes-effect-monday-in-rhode-island/#comments Fri, 29 Mar 2013 13:54:27 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4188 Starting Monday, penalties for low level marijuana possession will be decreased in Rhode Island.  This makes Rhode Island the fourteenth state to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana. The new law will call for a fine of $150 for marijuana possession of one ounce or less of marijuana.  This will replace past regulations that made the same offense punishable by a $500 fine and/or up to a year in prison. The decriminalization bill was originally introduced in 2011 by Representative John Edwards.  It was approved by the House and Senate in 2012 and signed into law by Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee in June 2012. On Monday, the law will officially take effect. Robert Capecchi, Deputy Director of State Policies for the Marijuana Policy Project told the press, "We applaud the legislature and Governor Chafee for answering Rhode Islanders' calls for a more sensible marijuana policy.  Nobody should be subject to life-altering criminal penalties simply for using a substance that is objectively less harmful than alcohol." [Source]]]> Starting Monday, penalties for low level marijuana possession will be decreased in Rhode Island.  This makes Rhode Island the fourteenth state to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana. The new law will call for a fine of $150 for marijuana possession of one ounce or less of marijuana.  This will replace past regulations that made the same offense punishable by a $500 fine and/or up to a year in prison. The decriminalization bill was originally introduced in 2011 by Representative John Edwards.  It was approved by the House and Senate in 2012 and signed into law by Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee in June 2012. On Monday, the law will officially take effect. Robert Capecchi, Deputy Director of State Policies for the Marijuana Policy Project told the press, "We applaud the legislature and Governor Chafee for answering Rhode Islanders' calls for a more sensible marijuana policy.  Nobody should be subject to life-altering criminal penalties simply for using a substance that is objectively less harmful than alcohol." [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/marijuana-decriminalization-takes-effect-monday-in-rhode-island/feed/ 1 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/texas-college-students-trying-to-decriminalize-marijuana-on-campus/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/texas-college-students-trying-to-decriminalize-marijuana-on-campus/#comments Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:19:08 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4158 UT graduate student Robert Love, a member of the university's student government, is leading the charge for the policy change along with 11 other students.  Love believes smoking and second hand smoke on campus are of far greater concern than marijuana possession. He told the press, "Marijuana is not a threat to safety on campus, so let's take resources away from marijuana and put it toward things that are dangerous to students." Currently, Travis County, where UT is located, allows law enforcement officials to arrest or issue a citation to someone for marijuana possession at their own discretion.  Love worries that this encourages discrimination and racial profiling by officers who are not provided clear cut direction. If UT passes this bill, it would be the first university not in a medical marijuana state to enforce citations over arrests for possession. UT Police Chief Robert Dahlstrom said student government cannot force police to act in a way that is in contrast to Texas law.  “They're very welcome to go down to State Legislature and try for a state law change, and then that's what we’ll enforce. But as peace officers of the state of Texas, we will follow the law,” he said. The Student Government at the University of Texas will decide Tuesday at 7 p.m. whether or not to change marijuana policy on campus. The vote will happen in the Student Activities Building on second floor.   [Source]]]> UT graduate student Robert Love, a member of the university's student government, is leading the charge for the policy change along with 11 other students.  Love believes smoking and second hand smoke on campus are of far greater concern than marijuana possession. He told the press, "Marijuana is not a threat to safety on campus, so let's take resources away from marijuana and put it toward things that are dangerous to students." Currently, Travis County, where UT is located, allows law enforcement officials to arrest or issue a citation to someone for marijuana possession at their own discretion.  Love worries that this encourages discrimination and racial profiling by officers who are not provided clear cut direction. If UT passes this bill, it would be the first university not in a medical marijuana state to enforce citations over arrests for possession. UT Police Chief Robert Dahlstrom said student government cannot force police to act in a way that is in contrast to Texas law.  “They're very welcome to go down to State Legislature and try for a state law change, and then that's what we’ll enforce. But as peace officers of the state of Texas, we will follow the law,” he said. The Student Government at the University of Texas will decide Tuesday at 7 p.m. whether or not to change marijuana policy on campus. The vote will happen in the Student Activities Building on second floor.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/texas-college-students-trying-to-decriminalize-marijuana-on-campus/feed/ 3 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-hampshire-to-vote-on-marijuana-decriminalization-this-week/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-hampshire-to-vote-on-marijuana-decriminalization-this-week/#comments Mon, 18 Mar 2013 14:01:13 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4096 The bill would make minor possession of marijuana a fineable offense rather than a misdemeanor, with fines of up to $100.  Additionally, individuals under the age of 18 who are caught with low levels of marijuana would be required to attend drug rehabilitation classes. A similar bill was passed in the House last year.  The bill had higher fines, but otherwise was the same.  The bill was killed in the Senate. New Hampshire's new Governor Maggie Hassan has stated that she does not approve of marijuana decriminalization.  However, she has not stated outright that she will veto the bill should it pass in the House and Senate. Many of New Hampshire's neighbors have already decriminalized low -evel marijuana possession, including New York, Massachusetts, and Maine. [Source]]]> The bill would make minor possession of marijuana a fineable offense rather than a misdemeanor, with fines of up to $100.  Additionally, individuals under the age of 18 who are caught with low levels of marijuana would be required to attend drug rehabilitation classes. A similar bill was passed in the House last year.  The bill had higher fines, but otherwise was the same.  The bill was killed in the Senate. New Hampshire's new Governor Maggie Hassan has stated that she does not approve of marijuana decriminalization.  However, she has not stated outright that she will veto the bill should it pass in the House and Senate. Many of New Hampshire's neighbors have already decriminalized low -evel marijuana possession, including New York, Massachusetts, and Maine. [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-hampshire-to-vote-on-marijuana-decriminalization-this-week/feed/ 2 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/hawaii-senate-passes-marijuana-decriminalization-bill/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/hawaii-senate-passes-marijuana-decriminalization-bill/#comments Wed, 06 Mar 2013 15:15:53 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=4014 On Tuesday, the Hawaii Senate unanimously voted to pass a bill that would decriminalize marijuana possession in the state.  Under the bill, possession of under an ounce of marijuana would be punished by a fine, rather than arrest and potential jail time. Those caught with up to an ounce of marijuana could be fined up to $1,000. Senator Clayton Hee explained, "What it does is save the court backlog system, according to a study done, of $9 million." Senator J. Kalani English added, "So why not send a measure to the House with the highest, hoping the house would now have something to work with." The Honolulu Police Department is against the measure.  They want marijuana possession to remain a petty misdemeanor because turning it into a civil citation could make it too complicated for officers. Major Jerry Inouye explained, "For example, an officer trying to issue a citation for marijuana, if the person doesn't have identification, it becomes difficult to enforce because a person could give a false name." The bill will now go to the House.  Earlier this session, a similar marijuana decriminalization bill already died in the Hawaii House.   [Source]]]> On Tuesday, the Hawaii Senate unanimously voted to pass a bill that would decriminalize marijuana possession in the state.  Under the bill, possession of under an ounce of marijuana would be punished by a fine, rather than arrest and potential jail time. Those caught with up to an ounce of marijuana could be fined up to $1,000. Senator Clayton Hee explained, "What it does is save the court backlog system, according to a study done, of $9 million." Senator J. Kalani English added, "So why not send a measure to the House with the highest, hoping the house would now have something to work with." The Honolulu Police Department is against the measure.  They want marijuana possession to remain a petty misdemeanor because turning it into a civil citation could make it too complicated for officers. Major Jerry Inouye explained, "For example, an officer trying to issue a citation for marijuana, if the person doesn't have identification, it becomes difficult to enforce because a person could give a false name." The bill will now go to the House.  Earlier this session, a similar marijuana decriminalization bill already died in the Hawaii House.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/hawaii-senate-passes-marijuana-decriminalization-bill/feed/ 1 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/efforts-to-decriminalize-marijuana-fail-in-indiana/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/efforts-to-decriminalize-marijuana-fail-in-indiana/#comments Tue, 12 Feb 2013 16:25:07 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3824 Senator Karen Tallian authored the bill in hopes of better representing the wants and needs of the people of Indiana.  A recent WISH TV survey found that 53% of people in the state approve of decriminalizing marijuana, while only 41% oppose it. Unfortunately, Senator Young is one of the opposition.  He is not totally close-minded to decriminalization, however, and has agreed to continue listening to Tallian's ideas to better understand the bill. Young said that he will work with Tallian over the summer so he can "learn a little bit more about this issue before we hear it." Senator Tallian is determined to get a hearing on the bill, but at best it will not come until late next year.   [Source]]]> Senator Karen Tallian authored the bill in hopes of better representing the wants and needs of the people of Indiana.  A recent WISH TV survey found that 53% of people in the state approve of decriminalizing marijuana, while only 41% oppose it. Unfortunately, Senator Young is one of the opposition.  He is not totally close-minded to decriminalization, however, and has agreed to continue listening to Tallian's ideas to better understand the bill. Young said that he will work with Tallian over the summer so he can "learn a little bit more about this issue before we hear it." Senator Tallian is determined to get a hearing on the bill, but at best it will not come until late next year.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/efforts-to-decriminalize-marijuana-fail-in-indiana/feed/ 5 http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/michigan-representative-introduces-marijuana-decriminalization-bill/ http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/michigan-representative-introduces-marijuana-decriminalization-bill/#comments Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:26:39 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3815 Michigan State Representative Jeff Irwin plans to introduce a bill in the state House of Representatives that would lessen the penalties for using marijuana.  Several communities in Michigan have already voted to decriminalize marijuana possession, but this new bill would change the law statewide. He explained, "We must take those policies that are already governing a good percentage of people in Michigan, and are working just fine, and apply those policies statewide.  And by doing so, we will free up a lot of law enforcement resources." The bill would decriminalize low level marijuana possession and change the penalty to a fine rather than jail time. Irwin believes that the state wastes millions of dollars by "running marijuana users through the court system and doing so at a great cost to our state and at great cost to those individuals and their futures."   [Source]  ]]> Michigan State Representative Jeff Irwin plans to introduce a bill in the state House of Representatives that would lessen the penalties for using marijuana.  Several communities in Michigan have already voted to decriminalize marijuana possession, but this new bill would change the law statewide. He explained, "We must take those policies that are already governing a good percentage of people in Michigan, and are working just fine, and apply those policies statewide.  And by doing so, we will free up a lot of law enforcement resources." The bill would decriminalize low level marijuana possession and change the penalty to a fine rather than jail time. Irwin believes that the state wastes millions of dollars by "running marijuana users through the court system and doing so at a great cost to our state and at great cost to those individuals and their futures."   [Source]  ]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/marijuana-legalization/michigan-representative-introduces-marijuana-decriminalization-bill/feed/ 5 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/flint-mi-police-plan-enforcement-as-usual-despite-marijuana-decriminalization/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/flint-mi-police-plan-enforcement-as-usual-despite-marijuana-decriminalization/#comments Thu, 08 Nov 2012 13:05:29 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=3119 However, the city police department and city officials are now saying that the proposal is only "symbolic in nature" and that police will continue to enforce state and local marijuana laws as usual.  Essentially, this means that state and local officials will act as though the decriminalization proposal was never passed by voters. Flint police Chief Alvern Lock explained, "We're still police officers and we're still empowered to enforce laws of the state of Michigan and the United States.  We're still going to enforce the laws as we've been enforcing them." The proposal was organized and supported by Coalition for a Safer Flint.  The group had to gather signatures to get the initiative on the ballot.  Brian Morrissey of CSA is disappointed in the city's actions.  "If the city police want to follow state law rather than city law, the maybe the state should be paying their salary," he said. Similar ballot measures were approved in Detroit and Grand Rapids on Tuesday. Flint is the fourth largest metropolitan area in Michigan, with a population of approximately 426,000.   [Source]]]> However, the city police department and city officials are now saying that the proposal is only "symbolic in nature" and that police will continue to enforce state and local marijuana laws as usual.  Essentially, this means that state and local officials will act as though the decriminalization proposal was never passed by voters. Flint police Chief Alvern Lock explained, "We're still police officers and we're still empowered to enforce laws of the state of Michigan and the United States.  We're still going to enforce the laws as we've been enforcing them." The proposal was organized and supported by Coalition for a Safer Flint.  The group had to gather signatures to get the initiative on the ballot.  Brian Morrissey of CSA is disappointed in the city's actions.  "If the city police want to follow state law rather than city law, the maybe the state should be paying their salary," he said. Similar ballot measures were approved in Detroit and Grand Rapids on Tuesday. Flint is the fourth largest metropolitan area in Michigan, with a population of approximately 426,000.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/flint-mi-police-plan-enforcement-as-usual-despite-marijuana-decriminalization/feed/ 15 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-jersey-considers-marijuana-decriminalization-proposals/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-jersey-considers-marijuana-decriminalization-proposals/#comments Mon, 06 Aug 2012 19:28:01 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=2510 The Assembly voted in June in favor of a bill which would minimize the penalties for low-level marijuana possession to escalating fines rather than a disorderly person charge. A first offense of possession of 15 grams or under would incur a $150 fine, a second offense would incur a $200 fine, and any subsequent offense would incur a $500 fine.  After the third offense, offenders would also be required to participate in a drug education program. If the bill passes, New Jersey police departments will receive new guidelines from the attorney general.  Police will have to establish new procedures, including omitting fingerprinting and processing of those found in possession of small amounts of marijuana. Assemblywoman L Grace Spencer is one of the bill's sponsors, and hopes that the educational aspects of the bill will help to stop marijuana from being labeled as a "gateway drug."  As a prosecutor, Spencer has noticed that the system is clogged by low level marijuana possession cases. In addition, she has seen the negative impact that incarceration can have on individuals who have never been in trouble with the law other than a marijuana possession arrest.  "It's so much more of a hindrance in having people move on with their lives," Spencer explained.  "Often times, individuals with a small amount - it's a personal use amount rather than people dealing.  If it's a personal issue, I see it as a problem.  Incarceration does not cure addiction." Rachel Cortrino, a member of NORML New Jersey's board, explained that the problems go even further than what Assemblywoman Spencer described.  People who are charged with marijuana possession, no matter how small the amount, could become ineligible for public housing and lose their driver's license.  Decriminalization could help people avoid these repercussions. According to Cortrino, another bill is also making its way through the Senate Judiciary Committee, which would decriminalize marijuana possession under 50 grams, impose flat fines of $50 and not require drug education for repeat offenders. Regardless of whether either of these bills, or a conglomeration of the two, makes it to the desk of Governor Chris Christie, it is anticipated that the Governor will veto any marijuana decriminalization measure.  Christie has been vocal about his disapproval of marijuana in the past.   [Source]]]> The Assembly voted in June in favor of a bill which would minimize the penalties for low-level marijuana possession to escalating fines rather than a disorderly person charge. A first offense of possession of 15 grams or under would incur a $150 fine, a second offense would incur a $200 fine, and any subsequent offense would incur a $500 fine.  After the third offense, offenders would also be required to participate in a drug education program. If the bill passes, New Jersey police departments will receive new guidelines from the attorney general.  Police will have to establish new procedures, including omitting fingerprinting and processing of those found in possession of small amounts of marijuana. Assemblywoman L Grace Spencer is one of the bill's sponsors, and hopes that the educational aspects of the bill will help to stop marijuana from being labeled as a "gateway drug."  As a prosecutor, Spencer has noticed that the system is clogged by low level marijuana possession cases. In addition, she has seen the negative impact that incarceration can have on individuals who have never been in trouble with the law other than a marijuana possession arrest.  "It's so much more of a hindrance in having people move on with their lives," Spencer explained.  "Often times, individuals with a small amount - it's a personal use amount rather than people dealing.  If it's a personal issue, I see it as a problem.  Incarceration does not cure addiction." Rachel Cortrino, a member of NORML New Jersey's board, explained that the problems go even further than what Assemblywoman Spencer described.  People who are charged with marijuana possession, no matter how small the amount, could become ineligible for public housing and lose their driver's license.  Decriminalization could help people avoid these repercussions. According to Cortrino, another bill is also making its way through the Senate Judiciary Committee, which would decriminalize marijuana possession under 50 grams, impose flat fines of $50 and not require drug education for repeat offenders. Regardless of whether either of these bills, or a conglomeration of the two, makes it to the desk of Governor Chris Christie, it is anticipated that the Governor will veto any marijuana decriminalization measure.  Christie has been vocal about his disapproval of marijuana in the past.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-jersey-considers-marijuana-decriminalization-proposals/feed/ 1 http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-york-governor-kills-marijuana-decriminalization-proposal/ http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-york-governor-kills-marijuana-decriminalization-proposal/#comments Wed, 20 Jun 2012 20:01:26 +0000 lucy http://news.nuggetry.com/?p=2180 Democrats, who control the State Assembly, were in favor of the bill.  With many of them being minorities from urban areas, they felt that decriminalization would lead to a decrease in arrests of Latinos and blacks who are unfairly targeted in police searches. Assemblywoman Inez D. Barron (Democrat) was in favor of the bill, and is disappointed that Governor Cuomo did not do more to force the issue.  She explained, "It's not a critical issue to [Governor Cuomo], but it is for our communities, and we understand it." The Republicans, who run the State Senate, are mostly white and from rural districts.  Their perspective differed from the more urban-based Democrats; Republicans saw decriminalization as an open invitation for young people to use drugs with minimal consequences.  Republicans were also concerned that decriminalization would make Albany and the state of New York look as though they were not tough on crime. Republican Senator John J. Flanagan said, "Marijuana still is a gateway drug to so many other much more dangerous things." With the legislative session ending on Thursday and lawmakers with vastly different opinions on the matter, Governor Cuomo declared the proposed decriminalization of marijuana dead. Of the difference of opinions, Governor Cuomo explained, "You have old folks like me who say, 'Whoa, the decriminalization of marijuana: what are you saying?  Everyone is going to walk around smoking marijuana and that's OK?'  So I think the Senate got a lot of blowback, pardon the pun." The decriminalization proposal was initially brought up by Governor Cuomo two weeks ago as a means of ending New York City's established "stop and frisk" procedure, which oftentimes leads to people being arrested for showing that they had a small amount of marijuana on their person. Governor Cuomo had the support of New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the speaker of the Assembly, the police commissioner, and New York City's 5 District Attorneys.  Unfortunately, the proposal did not make it past the initial stages due to the control of Republicans in the Senate. This is a matter of contention for New Yorkers, as lawmakers from Upstate New York have the power to derail proposals which will primarily impact residents of New York City, rather than the entire state.  Decriminalization would primarily impact city dwellers, as 90% of low level marijuana arrests in New York State occur in New York City. During the general election this November, all legislative seats will be on the ballot.  This means that there is potential that such a measure could move forward in the next legislative session.  Governor Cuomo is hopeful that this will be the case, as measures regarding certain issues can take time to gain support.  "Many of the large issues, social issues, they don't happen over a period of weeks," he said.  "It takes a period of months, sometimes a period of years.   [Source]]]> Democrats, who control the State Assembly, were in favor of the bill.  With many of them being minorities from urban areas, they felt that decriminalization would lead to a decrease in arrests of Latinos and blacks who are unfairly targeted in police searches. Assemblywoman Inez D. Barron (Democrat) was in favor of the bill, and is disappointed that Governor Cuomo did not do more to force the issue.  She explained, "It's not a critical issue to [Governor Cuomo], but it is for our communities, and we understand it." The Republicans, who run the State Senate, are mostly white and from rural districts.  Their perspective differed from the more urban-based Democrats; Republicans saw decriminalization as an open invitation for young people to use drugs with minimal consequences.  Republicans were also concerned that decriminalization would make Albany and the state of New York look as though they were not tough on crime. Republican Senator John J. Flanagan said, "Marijuana still is a gateway drug to so many other much more dangerous things." With the legislative session ending on Thursday and lawmakers with vastly different opinions on the matter, Governor Cuomo declared the proposed decriminalization of marijuana dead. Of the difference of opinions, Governor Cuomo explained, "You have old folks like me who say, 'Whoa, the decriminalization of marijuana: what are you saying?  Everyone is going to walk around smoking marijuana and that's OK?'  So I think the Senate got a lot of blowback, pardon the pun." The decriminalization proposal was initially brought up by Governor Cuomo two weeks ago as a means of ending New York City's established "stop and frisk" procedure, which oftentimes leads to people being arrested for showing that they had a small amount of marijuana on their person. Governor Cuomo had the support of New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the speaker of the Assembly, the police commissioner, and New York City's 5 District Attorneys.  Unfortunately, the proposal did not make it past the initial stages due to the control of Republicans in the Senate. This is a matter of contention for New Yorkers, as lawmakers from Upstate New York have the power to derail proposals which will primarily impact residents of New York City, rather than the entire state.  Decriminalization would primarily impact city dwellers, as 90% of low level marijuana arrests in New York State occur in New York City. During the general election this November, all legislative seats will be on the ballot.  This means that there is potential that such a measure could move forward in the next legislative session.  Governor Cuomo is hopeful that this will be the case, as measures regarding certain issues can take time to gain support.  "Many of the large issues, social issues, they don't happen over a period of weeks," he said.  "It takes a period of months, sometimes a period of years.   [Source]]]> http://news.nuggetry.com/recreational-marijuana/new-york-governor-kills-marijuana-decriminalization-proposal/feed/ 6