Pubdate: Mon, 22 Jul 2019
Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution (GA)
Copyright: 2019 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Contact:  http://www.ajc.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/28
Author: J.D. Capelouto

MARIJUANA DECRIMINALIZATION PUSH ROLLS INTO ANOTHER METRO ATLANTA CITY

It's been about three years since one DeKalb County city made history
with the most liberal marijuana enforcement policy in the state. Since
then, several more municipalities have followed suit, eliminating the
possibility of jail time and severely reducing the fine for possessing
one ounce or less of weed.

Months after the state Legislature passed a bill legalizing medical
marijuana sales, the push toward recreational decriminalization on the
local level is continuing; the city of Chamblee is currently
considering a measure that echoes the rules in Clarkston, which passed
its marijuana ordinance in July 2016.

"Take away the criminal aspect. Take away the pipeline of sending
people to jail," said Brian Mock, the Chamblee City Councilman who
introduced the ordinance.

The city currently defaults to state law for possession of one ounce
or less of marijuana, which is classified as a misdemeanor. Punishment
can include one year of jail time or a $1,000 fine. An ounce of
marijuana can make up to about 40 joints, according to online resources.
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MAP posted-by: Matt