Connecticut passes decrim; Get R.I. to follow suit

Published: June 8, 2011

Yesterday, the Connecticut House followed the state Senate’s lead by passing a decriminalization bill. Once Gov. Dan Malloy signs the bill he championed, Rhode Island will be surrounded by states with civil fines for simple possession of marijuana. A similar bill is pending in Rhode Island legislative committees, but time is running out. It’s essential that leadership hear that voters care about this issue: Please email leadership in both the House and Senate and ask them to make sure marijuana decriminalization gets scheduled for a committee vote soon.

The legislature will likely adjourn later this month, so it’s essential that they act soon. We have a small email list in Rhode Island and need you to also urge your friends and family in Rhode Island to contact leadership.

Decriminalizing marijuana would save the state millions of dollars and allow law enforcement to focus on crimes of violence and crimes against property. With Providence set to lay off 78 police officers at the end of the month, it’s vital that this bill pass this session. Please, email the legislative leaders today and ask others to act. I cannot stress enough how important constituent contact is. If you’d like to volunteer, please email rcapecchi@mpp.org.