Decriminalization:
On November 4, 2008, Massachusetts voters passed a ballot that decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana. The Massachusetts Sensible Marijuana Policy Initiative made the possession of less than one ounce of marijuana punishable by a fine of $100 without the possessor being reported to the state’s criminal history board. Minors also had to notify their parents, take a drug awareness program, and complete 10 hours of community service. Before decriminalization, people charged faced up to six months in jail and a $500 fine.
The proponents of the change argued that:
- The change would keep the existing policies regarding growing, trafficking, and driving under the influence of the drug, while protecting those caught from a tainted criminal record
- Massachusetts could save $130 million each year
- Convictions of less than one ounce have been shown to have little or no impact on drug use
The opponents argued that the decriminalization would:
- Promote use of the drug and protect dealers
- Increase violence
- Create hazardous workplaces
- Increase car crashes
The law went into effect January 2009.
Source of written content: Wikipedia.
Photo Credit: David McNew
