Cannabis Decriminalization Bill Approved by Florida’s Largest County
Commissioners of Miami-Dade, Florida’s largest county (with a population of over 2.6 million), have voted to allow police to give a simple civil infraction for the possession of cannabis rather than arresting and charging them.
Under current law, the possession of up to 20 grams of cannabis is a misdemeanor which carries with it a potential year long prison sentence. The new law, approved 10 to 3, gives police the option of issuing an $100 civil infraction for those caught possessing no more than 20 grams. This would mean the individual would not be arrested or charged with a crime.
“We have better things to do with our police resources,” says Commissioner Sally Heyman. “For goodness’ sakes, we don’t have to destroy the lives of so many.”
Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez says he supports the bill, calling it “good, common sense”, and police helped draft it.
The measure goes into effect 10 days from now.
– TheJointBlog
Tetrah11
Now I just may have a question about this, Why would they just make that in every county in the state of Florida? Or am I just confused?
NORML Hastings
This is a start but still not gone far enough but great job Commissioner Heyman. Please this is why it is so important to do your research so these lawmakers can make the best educated decisions.
The Sinned Angel
It was not done at the state level (nothing good ever is).
The county commission voted it for Dade county, the extent of their jurisdiction.
And don’t be fooled again. They did it just days after a new pro initiative was announced for the 2016 ballot. They are just trying to keep the initiative from getting signatures or votes.
Same crap as before… block block block delay delay delay .. however they can. The old lies don’t work anymore so they are getting creative with the new ones.
scott
uall need to legalize real medical cannabis in 2016. If the 70% of 18 to 35 yr olds would of voted in 2014 ur state would of been above the 60% needed to add it to ur state constitution. It was done by we the people of Colo. getting it on our constitution in 2000. Keep up the good fight.
Anonymous
If only Ct. would see it like Commissioner Heyman and have the police do more important issues COME ON dam it !!