Help pass marijuana decriminalization in Rhode Island; let your voice be heard!

Published: June 9, 2010

As many (if not all) of you know, we have been working hard to pass marijuana decriminalization legislation, replacing the criminal charge levied on individuals convicted of simple marijuana possession with a more sensible civil fine in Rhode Island this session. Up until yesterday we expected the General Assembly to adjourn today, Wednesday, June 9. The bad news is that this legislation has not yet moved. The good news is the General Assembly has yet to adjourn, which gives us some more time to secure a vote on marijuana decriminalization. Please, call your senator and your representative and ask that they lobby leadership to move the bill and also that they support the bill once it comes to a vote! We are coming down to the wire on this legislation — the General Assembly could adjourn late tonight or early tomorrow morning — so please make these vital calls today.

For all of you receiving this alert in Narragansett and South Kingstown, please note that your representative, David Caprio, is vital in passing decriminalization this year! Residents of Narragansett and South Kingstown — please call Rep. Caprio and ask that he support decriminalization!

By replacing a criminal conviction for simple marijuana possession with a civil fine of $150, Rhode Island stands to save up to $11 million a year in law enforcement costs as well as save countless Rhode Island residents from the burden of carrying a criminal record for the rest of their lives. The legislative session is expected to end within days, and these bills could move at any moment. This being the case, it is crucial that you act now. Call your senator and your representative asking them to support marijuana decriminalization and that they lobby leadership to allow their chambers to vote on this important proposal.

Make sure your friends and family, especially those in Narragansett and South Kingstown, make their support count too. Post this alert to your Facebook or other social network page and send this alert to friends and family so they too can stand up for sensible marijuana policy!

We’ll make sure to keep you informed as to where this bill is headed and who you can contact to ensure passage of this sensible marijuana policy reform.

Thank you so very much!