Media Advisory 9/18/2014

PhillyNORML – local chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws

Contact: Chris Goldstein  chris [at] phillynormal.org
City Council will vote on revised marijuana decriminalization bill today

Councilman James Kenney has revised the bill to reduce marijuana penalties in Philadelphia and the City Council is expected to vote on the issue today. Council session begins at 10AM and the bill is early in the agenda.

The bill stops the practice of mandatory custodial arrest for possession of small amounts of marijuana by adults. The measure passed in a 13-3 vote in June. Mayor Michael Nutter refused to sign the original version, but reached a compromise with Kenney on some changes. The revisions include how the fines are to be paid and creating a separate fine for smoking marijuana in public.

Police will now have the option to issue those caught with less than 30 grams of cannabis a ticket for $25 when in possession or $100 if caught smoking in public. Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey has vowed to implement the new procedure. Mayor Nutter has promised to sign the revised bill promptly.

“After hearing from members of the community, retired law enforcement and local advocates like PhillyNORML, the Philadelphia City government is about to make a practical and pragmatic shift,” said Chris Goldstein, co-chair of PhillyNORML.

“It is long past the time when handcuffs, holding cells and damaging, permanent record should be used for marijuana. This will not only save the city millions of dollars every year but it will improve our community.”

Ph:illyNORML members will be at City Hall today.

Contact: Chris Goldstein  chris [at] phillynormal.org

Added on September 18, 2014decrim, marijuana, PhiladelphiaIn The News