In Clarkston, Georgia a hard-fought local ordinance amendment will weaken penalties for simple possession of an ounce or less of marijuana. The amendment will change the penalty to a maximum $75 fine [1].
Clarkston is the first city in Georgia to decriminalize the use and possession of marijuana, which is still illegal under state law [2]. Mayor Ted Terry believes that by decriminalizing marijuana, the community of Clarkston is safer and people’s futures will not be limited over a non-violent offense [2].
Those in Clarkston are not the only ones in the state who want weaker charges for the use or possession of marijuana; counties like Athens-Clarke may also pass an ordinance that would set a standard fine and encourage officers to issue citations rather than arrest for simple possession [1].
Stay tuned to Rights First Law for more on this and other legal news.
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[2]http://www.cbs46.com/story/32378578/no-jail-75-fine-for-pot-offense-in-clarkston