POLL: Does Marijuana Decriminalization Make Sense In RI?

The state House and Senate have both approved bills eliminating the criminal charge for carrying an ounce or less of marijuana, which Gov. Lincoln Chafee said he's inclined to pass during a WPRO interview.

The legislation passed the House in a 50 to 24 vote and passed the Senate in a 28 to 6 vote. Each bill must now pass in the opposite chamber in order to become law. If enacted, Rhode Island would become the 15th state to decriminalize marijuana.

Johnston's House delegation was split 3-1 on the measure, with Rep. John Carnevale (Dist. 13) voting against, and Reps. Stephen Ucci (Dist. 42), Rep. Deborah Felella (Dist. 43), and Peter Petrarca (Dist. 44) in favor.

Sen. Frank Lombardi III cast a "yes" vote for the legislation.

House bill sponsor Rep. John G. Edwards (D-Tiverton, Portsmouth) said the legislation could save the state millions of dollars each year, clean the judicial dockets for more serious issues and take away the criminal stigma from an otherwise youthful indiscretion.

Atty. Gen. Peter Kilmartin said he opposes decriminalization because he believes more people would drive under the influence of the drug, and that the measure would increase the risk of teens using cannabis.

So, which concern carries more weight? The long-term consequences and cost of prosecution for posession, or the effectiveness of officers and the potential risk to teens? Vote in our poll below, and tell us your reasons in the comments.