Pubdate: Sun, 26 May 2002
Source: Age, The (Australia)
Copyright: 2002 The Age Company Ltd
Contact:  http://www.theage.com.au/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/5
Author: AAP
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

STATE GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES DRUG LAW REFORMS

Cannabis would remain illegal under the Western Australia government's 
proposed drug law reforms, state Health Minister Bob Kucera announced today.

He said penalties for the personal use of cannabis would include 
infringement notices for people found in possession of less than 30g or two 
plants.

The infringement notice scheme has the support of WA Police Commissioner 
Barry Matthews, who has told the state government he believes the changes 
are workable and will free-up police time and resources to deal with 
serious drug dealers and traffickers.

Under the scheme, people caught with small amounts of cannabis for personal 
use will receive an infringement notice and the drug will be confiscated.

However police will retain discretion and will be able to charge a person 
with a criminal offence if they believe the intent of the scheme is being 
flouted.

"Offenders will have the option of paying their fine, expiating the fine by 
attending an education session, or contesting it in court," the minister said.

Mr Kucera said the proposals were not a soft option to drug dealers because 
anyone found with large quantities of cannabis would be charged with a 
criminal offence.

He said the state government would begin drafting the new legislation with 
input from police and justice officials and expected the new regulations 
would be in force by the end of the year.
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