Pot Decriminalization Bill Moves Forward

A bill introduced by  in May that calls for the decriminalization of the possession of 15 grams or less of marijuana passed though the state assembly on Monday.

The bill takes possession of marijuana, 15 grams or less, from a criminal offense to an offense carrying a civil fine. The bill states that there would be a $150 fine for a first violation, a $200 fine for a second violation, and a $500 fine for a third or subsequent violation, except in cases of "extreme financial hardship."

Bill A-1465 also states that "a person who possesses drug paraphernalia for the personal use of 15 grams or less of marijuana would not be guilty of a criminal violation but instead would be subject to a $100 civil penalty."

A separate bill, introduced to the Senate by Senator Nicholas Scutari (D-Middlesex, Somerset, Union) just days after the assembly bill in May, calls for the decriminilization of the possession of 50 grams or less of marijuana. No amendments or floor discussions have been publicized for that bill yet.

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