City Council to Consider Reduced Penalties for Pot Smokers

A new bill that would reduce penalties for possession of marijuana in Philadelphia is expected to be introduced by City Council this week, the Inquirer reported.

The bill, which calls for a separate offense for public use of marijuana, could be signed into law as early as next month.

Under the proposed legislation, those caught using marijuana in public would face a $100 fine or nine hours of community service and be charged with a noncriminal offense, according to the Inquirer.

Anyone found in possession of less than 30 grams of marijuana would get a citation and face a $25 fine, the Inquirer reported.