Rhode Island
On June 13, 2012, Rhode Island decriminalized cannabis. Possession of 28.34 grams or less is a penalty of law with a civil violation of $150 for most violations. The new law also dictates that three such violations within an 18 month period would be a misdemeanor with larger fines and possible prison. The law will take effect April, 1st 2013. Harvard economist estimated that this proposal will save the state of Rhode Island up to $11 million dollars annually.
In addition, allowing law enforcement to issue a simple citation as opposed to making an arrest for marijuana possession will free up law enforcement time to prevent, investigate, and solve crimes of violence and against property. Earlier this month, the Rhode Island General Assembly overwhelming approved bills that would – for most offenses – remove the threat of jail time for the simple possession of marijuana. The companion bills – S2253/H7092 – would replace the current criminal charge for simple possession – up to a year in jail and/or up to a $500 fine – with a $150 civil offense.
Individuals under the age of 18 would be subject to the same civil violation and would also be required to attend a drug education course as well as perform community service. A third marijuana possession offense within 18 months could result in a misdemeanor conviction punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.
Read more about this topic: Places That Have Decriminalized Non-medical Cannabis In The United States
Famous quotes containing the word island:
“The shifting islands! who would not be willing that his house should be undermined by such a foe! The inhabitant of an island can tell what currents formed the land which he cultivates; and his earth is still being created or destroyed. There before his door, perchance, still empties the stream which brought down the material of his farm ages before, and is still bringing it down or washing it away,—the graceful, gentle robber!”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)