Connecticut lawmakers voted 90 - 57 in favor of decriminalizing possession of up to a half-ounce of marijuana. Thirteen other states have passed similar laws, with positive financial benefits on their state budgets. Connecticut’s Office of Fiscal Analysis suggested that the state would save up to $885,000 a year just on prosecutors’ salaries. Additionally, the OFA concluded that fines and fees would contribute approximately $1.4 million dollars annually to the state’s coffers.
The bill supporting decriminalization barely squeaked by the Senate. An 18-18 tie vote was broken only when Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman voted in in favor of the measure.
Governor Dannel Malloy, who supports decriminalization, will sign the bill into law, which will go into effect on July 1. The new law will decriminalize possession of up to one-half ounce of marijuana. Those caught with the allotted amount will no longer be arrested, brought to court and, if found guilty, face incarceration. Previously, a person convicted of possession of even a small amount of marijuana would have a criminal record that might exclude the person from obtaining grants for school, or from obtaining a employment.
Instead of being hauled of to jail, those caught with a small amount of marijuana will now receive a $150 fine for the first offense, and fines from $200 - $500 for subsequent offenses. The original bill was amended to include harsher penalties for people under 21 years of age. Those 21 and under will have their driver’s license suspended for 60 days, if caught with a small amount of marijuana. For those who are 18 and under, penalties include being referred to the juvenile justice system. Anyone with three or more offenses will be sent for drug counseling, paid at their own expense.
Opponents of the bill worry that decriminalization will encourage more young people to smoke marijuana. Proponents point out that Portugal, which decriminalized marijuana a decade ago, saw a drop in usage. Both sides offer studies defending each position on whether marijuana is a “gateway” drug. The new law, according to supporters, will also have a positive effect on people of color, who previously were more likely to be arrested for possession of marijuana, and end up with a criminal record.
A Better Way Foundation, a Connecticut advocacy organization that pushes for treatment, rather than incarceration, for those charged with drug offenses, has been instrumental in garnering support for decriminalization. LaResse Harvey, Policy Director for A Better Way Foundation, told Reentry Central that with the passage of the bill, “Connecticut moved toward a more equitable criminal justice system.” She added, “ Governor Malloy understands what’s needed to be done to restore justice to Connecticut residents who have been unjustly criminalized. We thank him for his support, and also thank the leadership team of the general assembly, for standing up for the decriminalization of marijuana.”
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