Conn. Lawmakers Delay Discussion Of Marijuana Bill
March 30, 2009
Associated Press
HARTFORD, Conn.—A Connecticut legislative committee has delayed its decision on whether to endorse a bill decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana.
The proposal was slated for a vote Monday by the Judiciary Committee, but was pushed back to Tuesday when the group's meeting ran long as it debated other bills.
The proposal would change the penalty for possession of less than one ounce of marijuana from a misdemeanor to an infraction, eliminating the possibility of jail time and cutting the maximum fine from $1,000 to $121.
Supporters say it will cut police and court costs while sparing those caught with a small amount of the drug from a lifelong criminal record.
Critics worry it would send the wrong message about illegal drug use. | 
