I guess it's time to poke more Texas "legislators" with another stick. Fucking Cro-Magnon assholes.
New Orleans Approves Marijuana Decriminalization
For many communities who are seeking reform, but cannot do much because of state laws, decriminalization can be a wonderful alternative. It allows law enforcement to issue a civil citation and a fine, rather than arrest followed by court. Well, it’s a good day to be living in New Orleans because their mayor just signed into law an ordinance to decriminalize marijuana possession.
The new law is an expansion of a 2010 law that allowed officers to issue a court summons to first-time marijuana offenders, rather than arrest. Now police officers will have the option to issue a court summons to all offenders in possession of less than 14 grams of marijuana. If the individual is convicted at trial, then they will be fined anywhere from $40-100 dollars.
For the first offense, the fine would be $40, second would be $60 and $80 for a third – any offense from that point on would be fined at $100 each time. The court hearings would not see the defendants facing jail time and alternatives to a fine – community service, for example – may be offered for those who cannot financially afford to pay the fine.
Now, if the officer feels it is necessary they do still have the option to arrest people – however, it is not likely they will spend the time to do so. If the offender is carrying more than 14 grams or it appears that there is intent to sell, then they are still going to be arrested under current state laws.
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