Title:
R.I.: Marijuana decriminalization voted out of House and Senate committees!
Message:
Just moments ago, both the Senate and House Committees on Judiciary approved legislation to reform the penalty for possession of up to an ounce of marijuana! The twin bills now move to consideration by the full House and Senate. Email your elected officials today to make sure they’re aware of the overwhelming support for this change.
If enacted, S2253/H7092 would replace the criminal penalties for adults’ possession of up to an ounce of marijuana with a civil violation of $150 for most violations. Minors would also have to perform community service and attend a drug education course. If an individual received a third offense within 18 months, then he or she would be subject to a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of no more than $500. Ask your elected officials to support this sensible change when it is called to a floor vote.
Sixty-five percent of Rhode Island voters support this modest proposal (PDF). Make sure your elected officials are on the right side of history by asking them to support S2253/H7092.
