RI Begins 'Sensible Drug Policy'

Rep. John G. Edwards and Sen. Josh Miller – lead sponsors of last year’s marijuana decriminalization legislation – joined Protect Families First at a State House press conference on Monday to discuss the impact of the new law on young people and families.

The lawmakers had an in-depth discussion of the new rules in place for possession of 1 ounce or less of marijuana, which includes a $150 civil fine to replace the criminal penalties.

Only a third or subsequent offense within 18 months of the previous offense would be treated as a misdemeanor. All individuals under the age of 18 caught with an ounce or less of pot will be required to perform community service and complete a drug education course.

“I am very proud that Rhode Island will be able to begin a new chapter in sensible drug policy today,” Representative Edwards said. “As I have said many times before, I firmly believe that people should be able to work, volunteer and live their lives after being caught for a youthful indiscretion or two. What we have been able to do with this law is effectively punish those in possession of small quantities of marijuana while giving people opportunities to redeem themselves by allowing them to be productive members of society.”

Rhode Island joins 14 other states across the country that have passed similar decriminalization laws. Under the state law, 50 percent of all marijuana fines collected will go to the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal and will be designated for drug treatment and education programs for youth.

Members of Protect Families First were present at the press conference to show support for the new law and called on policymakers take the next step by regulating marijuana similarly to alcohol and implementing controls to improve public safety and health. The organization works directly with Rhode Island communities to identify issues affecting families and young people.

Miller added, “It’s clear from what we’ve been able to glean from the Special Senate Commission to Study the Prohibition of Marijuana that education and treatment are better for addressing teen marijuana use than incarceration. We’re also saving money by keeping people out of jail for minor marijuana infractions and putting money where it can best serve our communities: drug education programs for young violators. Today is truly a milestone for Rhode Island."