Based on the strong leadership of members of the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus, a bill to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana passed the House of Delegates. Similar legislation passed the Maryland Senate and will be sent to Governor O'Malley for signature. Passage of this legislation is important to address racial disparities associated with enforcement of the current law. Even though white and black Marylanders use marijuana at the same rate, studies have shown that black Marylanders are three times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession. The legislation which passed both houses of the Maryland legislature will promote drug rehabilitation instead of mass incarceration for individuals caught with possessing less than 10 grams of marijuana. Individuals charged for possessing small amounts of marijuana will be subject to a fine of $100 for the first offense, $250 for a second offense and $500 for any subsequent offenses. The legislation passed by the House mandates evaluation for drug treatment for first time offenders under the age of 21 and for those older than 21 upon a third offense. The lives and futures of our young people should not be destroyed for petty marijuana possession. I urge you to email and call Governor O'Malley and ask him to sign this important legislation. READ MORE.
