Cannabis Decriminalization Ordinance Unanimously Approved by Miami Beach Lawmakers
Miami Beach commissioners have unanimously passed an ordinance that would establish an $100 fine for those caught possessing small amounts of cannabis. The vote comes just days after the commissioners of Miami-Dade, the largest county in Florida, passed a similar proposal.
Under the new law, police will have the option of issuing a $100 fine to those caught possessing no more than 20 grams of cannabis. Under current law, the possession of up to 20 grams of cannabis is a misdemeanor which can result in a year-long prison sentence.
“[I]f someone’s caught with under 20 grams, we don’t want to ruin their lives”, says Miami Beach Mayor Philip Levine
The Miami Beach Police Department estimates that the proposal will save over $40,000 in costs associated with the arrest and prosecution of possession cases.
The ordinance goes into effect in 10 days.
– TheJointBlog