Conn. Lawmakers Consider Fines For Small Pot Busts
March 31, 2009
Associated Press
HARTFORD, Conn. - Connecticut lawmakers will be asked this spring to consider a bill decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana by adults.
The legislature's Judiciary Committee endorsed the proposal late Tuesday on a 24-14 vote, though several lawmakers questioned its chance for success and said they voted yes only to give the full General Assembly a chance to debate it.
It would change the penalty for possessing a half-ounce of marijuana or less from a misdemeanor to an infraction, eliminate the possibility of jail time and cut the maximum fine from $1,000 to $250.
People under 18 would continue to be charged under current laws, however, and go through juvenile court.
Supporters of the bill say it would cut court costs by millions of dollars yearly and spare people from lifelong criminal records for what might be a one-time lapse of judgment.
Gov. M. Jodi Rell and other opponents worry it sends a message that Connecticut condones illegal drug use. Rell has not said whether she would veto the measure if it reaches her desk.
"Whether it's a little or a lot, it is an illegal substance and the governor does not support the bill," Rell spokesman Christopher Cooper said Tuesday night.
A dozen legislatures since 1973 have enacted various versions of marijuana decriminalization, according to the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws.
The list includes Alaska, California, Colorado, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, North Carolina, Ohio and Oregon. Last year, Massachusetts passed by referendum a measure decriminalizing small amounts of marijuana.
In each of the states, marijuana users do not face jail time — and in some cases arrest or criminal records — for the possession or use of small amounts.
Connecticut lawmakers who oppose the proposed changes said Tuesday they worry that reducing the penalties will end up boosting the market for marijuana and help its dealers.
"If we make this change, I think what we're essentially saying is possession of marijuana is like a speeding ticket, (and) this is in effect taking away the speed traps," said state Sen. John Kissel, R-Enfield. "This is, in effect, throwing up one's hands and saying, 'It's all over, we're not going to enforce this anymore."' | 
