Fulton Decriminalizes Marijuana In Unincorporated Area

FULTON COUNTY, GA — Fulton County Commissioners on Wednesday voted to make changes in its ordinance setting the maximum penalties for misdemeanor marijuana possession. The resolution, which was passed by a 4-1 vote, notes those arrested for possession of less than an ounce of marijuana could face no jail time and a fine of no more than $75.

This change would affect the remaining unincorporated Fulton County, which currently encompasses the Fulton Industrial District. Commissioner Emma Darnell voted against the measure while Commissioners Liz Hausmann and Lee Morris abstained from voting. Commission Chairman Robb Pitts and Commissioners Bob Ellis, Marvin Arrington, Jr. and Natalie Hall all voted in favor.

“We see this ordinance as an opportunity to encourage other municipalities to support similar legislation regarding penalties for possession,” said Pitts, a co-sponsor of the legislation. “The goal is to have common sense penalties for these crimes.”

Penalties for additional arrests for misdemeanor possession would increase with each additional arrest. Subsequent offenses would have a mandatory minimum fine schedule of $150 for a second offense, $300 for a third offense, $450 for a fourth offense, and for all subsequent offenses, a mandatory minimum fine schedule of $500 and may include imprisonment for up to 60 days in jail.

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“A singular, minor mistake should not forever tarnish someone’s future,” said Arrington, another co-sponsor of the legislation. “This ordinance is a small step to making sure that is reflected in the law.”

The Fulton Industrial District encompasses Fulton Industrial Boulevard, and is sandwiched between the city of Atlanta and the City of South Fulton.

“With all of the issues facing young people in our county, the prospect of their futures being forever damaged by one mistake is something we should avoid,” Hall added. “This will allow law enforcement to use their time to focus on more serious crimes that keep our citizens safe. The city of Atlanta and other jurisdictions have taken similar steps, and we believe others should follow this example too."

Offenders under the age of 21 will be required to appear in court and may be ordered to drug treatment. Violators who are 21 or older must appear in court after a third offense and may be ordered into drug treatment.

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