New Hampshire's marijuana decriminalization law goes into effect

Sept. 17 (UPI) -- New Hampshire officially decriminalized possession of small amounts of marijuana Saturday, becoming the 22nd state in the country to stop making small amounts of the drug a criminal offense.

People caught with up to 21 grams of marijuana will not face arrest or criminal charges under the new New Hampshire law, but they will be subject to a civil violation and a fine of up to $100 for their first and second offenses and $300 for a third offense.

Under the old law, violators faced up to one year in prison and a $2,000 fine.

The decriminalization bill was signed by Gov. Chris Sununu in July and has been praised by marijuana reform advocates.

Read more: https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2017/09/17/New-Hampshires-marijuana-decriminalization-law-goes-into-effect/6641505683064/