Milwaukee Council Votes to Reduce Penalty for Cannabis Possession by 90%
The Milwaukee Common Council has voted to significantly reduce the penalty for the possession of up to 25 grams of cannabis. The proposal, which was approved with a 10 to 3 vote, would reduce the penalty from a $500 fine, to a maximum fine of $50. The measure now goes to Mayor Tom Barrett for consideration.
“There can be all kinds of consequences for a marijuana conviction, even for a ticket,” says Chris Ahmuty, ACLU of Wisconsin Executive Director, who applauded the decision. “It can impact employment, your ability to participate in society so there’s real harm that comes from excessive fines and enforcement of marijuana laws.”
With a population of just under 600,000, Milwaukee is the largest city in Wisconsin, and the 31st most populous city in the United States.
Legislation to legalize cannabis possession and cultivation in all of Wisconsin was filed recently in the state’s House and Senate.
– TheJointBlog