GreenSurfer
Well-Known Member
BOSTON (AP) ― With a big win at the state level behind them, advocates for marijuana decriminalization are aiming for changes in federal law.
On Tuesday, Massachusetts voters approved a law that punishes people caught with less than an ounce of marijuana with a civil fine, rather than criminal penalty.
Now local advocates point to a bill introduced by U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, which would decriminalize possession of marijuana in amounts of 3.5 ounces or less anywhere in the country.
Keith Stroup of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws said he hopes the bill can lead to hearings and spark more support from lawmakers.
But Frank told The Boston Globe he doesn't see his bill passing anytime soon because his fellow lawmakers aren't yet ready to take a stand on the issue.
On Tuesday, Massachusetts voters approved a law that punishes people caught with less than an ounce of marijuana with a civil fine, rather than criminal penalty.
Now local advocates point to a bill introduced by U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, which would decriminalize possession of marijuana in amounts of 3.5 ounces or less anywhere in the country.
Keith Stroup of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws said he hopes the bill can lead to hearings and spark more support from lawmakers.
But Frank told The Boston Globe he doesn't see his bill passing anytime soon because his fellow lawmakers aren't yet ready to take a stand on the issue.