Marijuana In Alabama: State Takes Steps Toward Decriminalization

MONTGOMERY, AL - Alabama has been known for having some of the tightest marijuana laws in the country, and annually sits among the leaders in the country in marijuana-related arrests. That is likely to change, however, as steps have been taken by local law enforcement agencies and the state legislature this year to decriminalize the drug.

Last week, the Alabama Senate passed a medical marijuana bill that would create a process for prescription of marijuana for certain medical conditions, including: autism spectrum disorder; epilepsy; cancer; degenerative or pervasive neurological disorders; glaucoma; HIV/AIDS; multiple sclerosis; muscle disorders, including those associated with muscle spasms; opioid addiction; pain syndromes or pain associated with other medical conditions; and post traumatic stress disorder.. It would require recommendations from two doctors before a patient could get approved for a prescription, among other conditions.

Republican Sen. Tim Melson of Florence said research shows medical marijuana can offer relief to patients with certain chronic medical conditions without the addiction of opioids.

If passed by the House, Alabama would become the 34th state to legalize medical marijuana. Currently, there are 10 states that have made marijuana legal in all forms.

This bill comes after a recent proposal in Jefferson County to end minor marijuana possession arrests. Jefferson County Bessemer Cutoff District Attorney Lynneice Washington in April said she and other county officials are collaborating on a policy that would put an end to arrests for some non-violent misdemeanors, including simple marijuana possession.

Washington said she, Jefferson County District Attorney Danny Carr and Sheriff Mark Pettway have collaborated to implement the procedure, which is known as the "Big Ticket."

Under the "Big Ticket" program, offenses such as simple marijuana possession, possession of drug paraphernalia and harassment would no longer call for an arrest.