AFF Forum - Jackson Marijuana Ordinances

In February the Jackson, MS City Council amended an ordinance to decriminalize marijuana. Councilman Stamps introduced the ordinance to amend Chapter 86 Article III. The measure passed. The amendment limits the maximum penalty for possession of 30 grams, or just over an ounce, to a $100 fine with no prison time for the first offense. The user level amount penalty is a civil charge, similar to a traffic ticket. Marijuana possession is still illegal in the city and state and violates federal laws. "How we criminalize this is the issue and we must get out of the habit of turning users into criminals," said Stamps. "But giving them the appropriate treatment they need to move forward." It still remains illegal under Jackson city law, just a lower level of punishment, a lower fine, and no jail. Jackson joins 13 other cities, including Atlanta, Memphis, New Orleans, Pittsburgh and Washington D.C., which have lessen penalties for personal possession. Join us for a healthy discussion on the new marijuana ordinance.