02/11/2013
Lawmakers are considering legislation to significantly reduce ma*****na possession penalties.
House Bill 465, sponsored by Rep. Emily Kane (D-Albuquerque) seeks to decriminalize adult ma*****na possession offenses, eliminating the possibility of a jail sentence for those who possesses eight ounces ounces or less of cannabis. Those who possess less than four ounces would be subject to a civil fine and no criminal record. Under present law, possessing ma*****na is a criminal misdemeanor offense punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
The measure awaits action from the House Consumer & Public Affairs Committee.
According to a report in the Santa Fe New Mexican newspaper, "The measure is backed by the three most powerful Democrats in the House. Among its co-sponsors are House Speaker Kenny Martinez of Grants, Majority Leader Rick Miera and Majority Whip Moe Maestas, both of Albuquerque."
Separate legislation, Senate Joint Memorial 31, sponsored by Sen. Jerry Ortiz y Pino (D-Albuquerque) requests that the state Economic Development Department conduct a study and report back to the Legislature on the budgetary implications of taxing and regulating ma*****na.
You can write your House lawmaker in favor of House Bill 465 by visiting NORML's 'Take Action Center' here:
http://capwiz.com/norml2/issues/alert/?alertid=62393026
Ma*****na Decriminalization Legislation Introduced In New Mexico
