Politics
Indiana Lawmakers Attempt To Decriminalize Marijuana
By Ramone Tarnaski
Marijuana decriminalization is the latest buzzword in the weed world, and the police aren't happy. A new law in Indiana would give more people the chance to defeat this flawed system. President Joe Biden has said he is willing to push the measure nationwide.
The concept does not normally mean criminal sanctions related to marijuana possession, but offenders are not bound by criminal law. In most cases, anyone caught in possession of up to an ounce of weed can be fined a small amount.
The definition of decriminalization has changed in parts of the country that remain among the most militant towards marijuana offenders. Indiana has a long history of changing its marijuana laws, but now its state officials are attemptpting to prevent law enforcement from imposing DUI on motorists. This year, lawmakers introduced a bill aimed at reducing penalties for minor marijuana offenses.
Lawmakers keep returning to the drawing board to craft a marijuana law they believe can actually become law. Currently, people suspected of driving under the influence of marijuana can be asked to take a blood test, and failure to comply with an officer's request can result in a fine of up to $1,000 and/or six months in prison, or both.
Consent to the test opens the door for drivers to charge a DUI, and there are not many states where drivers can pass a breath-alcohol test to escape the clutches of the law.
The zero-tolerance policy is causing trouble for innocent people and violating the First Amendment's right to freedom of expression and citizens' rights under the Fourth Amendment.