Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger recently signed a new CA marijuana proposal into law. The bill only makes weed slightly less illegal. It doesn’t make it lawful, by any stretch, however it does change the nature of the offense of possession of certain amounts. The regulation changes possession of small amounts to only a small fine. Possession of small amounts was formerly a misdemeanor criminal offense, which warranted a court appearance.
Schwarzenegger seeking a marijuana reform
The SB 1449 bill was something Governor Schwarzenegger signed just lately. The penalty of carrying less than an ounce of marijuana around went down with SB 1449. This is considered a misdemeanor right now and may cost you a $100 fine. It also a court appearance. January 1, 2011 is when the change will be taking place. Only a penalty will occur with the brand new bill. There is also an additional bill, Proposition 19, which would make marijuana use for recreational purposes entirely legal. Prop 19 isn’t something that Governor Schwarzenegger supports. Of course it was only practical that he sign in SB 1449. It is a huge burden to courts to have too several cases in there. Also, it was a burden to law officials. Through the whole United States of America, California’s medical cannabis laws are the most relaxed.
The bill is inadequate
The arguments concerning marijuana use and its relative “evils” are flawed. Marijuana has the exact same effect of tobacco and alcohol. It is the exact same kind of gateway drug. Whether or not that person uses marijuana first or not, someone wanting drugs will find them. Marijuana also has an interesting criminalization history. This is one more reason to suspect it should never have been illegal. One of the reasons Nixon launched the “Drug War” was to give law enforcement greater powers to crack down on political dissenters.
Hardly any benefits
History teaches us that people will find a way to do what they want, regardless of the law. In the early 20th century, alcohol became prohibited. Of course more crime only happened with this. Marijuana being illegal does the very same thing. The police end up having more to do. Those who lived with the K.G.B. or Stasi looking over their shoulder have a thing or two to state. They testify to that experience completely. Nobody enjoys marijuana being illegal. It does not benefit anyone.
Articles cited
LA Times
latimesblogs.latimes.com/california-politics/2010/10/schwarzenegger-signs-bill-reducing-offense-for-marijuana-possession.html
