Drug laws

[sweetvtmom]

Is it true that it is only a fine now if you get caught with Marijuana in your car? What was the purpose behind this law?

A person I know was picked up with marijuana in his car. He is saying he only got a fine and no jail time? I am just not sure that I believe him. It doesn't seem like a harsh enough punishment--I'm sure it isn't going to stop him. Is there a 3 strikes your out law that goes along with these fines?

[Judge]

It is true! Now it is only a civil penalty with no risk of having a criminal record. It is only a $100 fine. (Michigan is similar)

[ManicProphet]

You can't be serious. A Harsh enough punishment?????!!!! Thereason that marijuana was decriminalized in MA is because taxpayers were spending thousands upon thousands of dollars for arresting and trying recreational users. Also, police were avoiding REAL criminals (i.e. rapists, pedophiles, murderers) in order to bust marijuana users. Why? Because it's easier and safer to bust pot users and the police can still look like they are doing their jobs.

You really need to educate yourself more on this topic. Recreational pot users who privately smoke are not criminals who deserve to be punished. I happen to be a smoker and I am one of the kindest people you could ever meet. I am also quite educated and have a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology, soon to be masters. And guess what??? I almost wasn't able to graduate college because after being arrested for possesion of marijuana the judge told me that I could potentially lose my financial aid if convicted. Luckily the judge gave me a break. But it angers me severely that I could have lost my education and had my entire future ruined over having a tiny little peice of plant in my pocket. You want to live in a Country with no freedom? Move to Turkey or Singapore