Pubdate: Fri, 13 Jun 2003
Source: Brooks Bulletin, The (CN AB)
Copyright: 2003 The Brooks Bulletin.
Contact:  http://www.brooksbulletin.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2917
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mjcn.htm (Cannabis - Canada)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

JAIL AS DETERRENT

The proposed change in penalties for using, growing and selling marijuana 
is causing some consternation in the United States where the penalty for 
possessing marijuana alone is a $1,000 fine and up to a year in jail for 
the first offence.

In addition the U.S. has singled out Canada as an increasing source of this 
high-potency drug, and has called the proposed legislation a dangerous threat.

The bill may have its drawbacks, but it will deter would-be traffickers 
with the threat of a long prison term... yet it eliminates criminal 
penalties for possession of 15 grams of marijuana or less. The latter is 
one of the stumbling blocks.

Once the bill is passed, likely this fall, fines for possession will range 
up to $250 for youths and $400 for adults - which critics claim is far too 
low. The penalty for growers ranges up to 14 years in jail, which will be a 
strong deterrent.

It does appear, in the meantime, that penalties will be reviewed before 
Ottawa approves the legislation. One thing seems clear: growers and dealers 
will spend a long time in jail.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom