Pubdate: Thu, 16 Jan 2014
Source: Columbus Dispatch (OH)
Copyright: 2014 The Columbus Dispatch
Contact:  http://www.dispatch.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/93

D.C. MAY EASE UP ON PERSONAL POT USE

WASHINGTON - The District of Columbia moved closer yesterday to
weakening restrictions on marijuana as city lawmakers advanced a plan
to make possession of up to 1 ounce of the drug a civil violation.

In a unanimous voice vote, the city council's public-safety committee
sent the full council a proposed ordinance that would decriminalize
the possession of marijuana, making it subject to a fine as low as $25
and seizure of the drug.

The penalty for possessing any amount of marijuana in the District of
Columbia is up to six months in jail and up to a $1,000 fine. It is
legal for medicinal use.

Tommy Wells, a Democratic councilman who is running for mayor this
year, introduced the measure last summer, arguing that current law
disproportionately punishes black residents and costs too much to enforce.

Under the new measure, smoking marijuana in public places, including
train stations, would be subject to a $100 fine. Selling marijuana
would remain a crime.

The full council likely will cast a first vote on the bill on Feb. 4,
said Jack Pfeiffer, a spokesman for Wells. The council must approve
legislation twice before it goes to the mayor. It then would be
subject to a 30-day review by Congress before it could be enacted.

Ten of the 13 council members supported the bill when it was
introduced, and the measure is expected to pass. Mayor Vincent C.
Gray, a Democrat, also supports the measure, a spokesman, Pedro
Ribeiro, confirmed yesterday.  
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