New York lawmakers OK marijuana decriminalization

Lawmakers in New York state have voted to eliminate criminal penalties for public possession and use of marijuana after efforts to legalize pot stalled.

The measure would reduce low-level criminal charges for unlawful possession of marijuana to a violation, which comes with a fine similar to a parking ticket. The penalty would be $50 for possessing less than one ounce of pot or $200 for one to two ounces.

In an effort to address decades of racial disparities in drug arrests, the bill would also allow for the expungement of past convictions for possession of small amounts of marijuana.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, proposed his own plan for legalization earlier this year. He said he’ll sign the decriminalization bill, noting that he called for a similar step five years ago.

At: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/jun/21/new-york-lawmakers-ok-pot-decriminalization/

New York Sen. Jamaal T. Bailey, D-Bronx (left) fist bumps Sen. Timothy M. Kennedy, D-Buffalo, after Bailey’s legislation expanding decriminalization legislation for marijuana passed on June 20.

Gov. Cuomo has indicated he'll sign the bill.