Politics & Government
Governor Signs Marijuana Decriminalization Legislation Into Law
Rep. John Edwards, sponsor of the bill, witnesses the signing of this law. This legislation makes Rhode Island the 15th state in the country to decriminalize small amounts of marijuana.
Rep. John Edwards and Gov. Lincoln D. Chafee sit for the ceremonial signing of his legislation (2012-S 2253Aaa, 2012-H 7092Aaa), which decriminalizes an ounce or less of marijuana.
The new law imposes a civil penalty of a $150 fine for carrying 1 ounce or less, plus forfeiture of the drug. A third offense within 18 months of the previous offense would be treated as a misdemeanor.
Sen. Joshua Miller (D-Dist. 28, Cranston, Warwick) sponsored the bill in the Senate.
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