Marijuana Baby Steps

[Cinjin]

Slowly (very slowly) but surely marijuana gets decriminalized.

Kalamazoo, Michigan as of tonight.

Kalamazoo currently does not prosecute marijuana use or possession as an offense under city ordinance. As a statutory offense under state law, it is a misdemeanor that carries with it a penalty of one year imprisonment or a $2,000 fine, or both. If the ordinance is passed by the city commission, offenders would serve 93 days in jail or pay a $100 fine, or do both.

As of tonight, this has changed significantly. The city council passed it tonight and in 10 days it takes effect. Although, marijuana is a long way from being legal, this is a huge step in the right direction and it will help set a major precedent for future cities in the state of Michigan.

The KDPS believes that enforcing the offense (1 oz. marijuana possession) as an ordinance with a lower penalty and permitting issuance of an appearance ticket in lieu of making an actual custodial arrest will be a better use of law enforcement resources.

Whiskey, wine, beer, vodka, tequila, Vicodin, etc etc. ... all legal. Marijuana should be too. MHO