Pubdate: Thu, 04 Apr 2013
Source: Province, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2013 Postmedia Network Inc.
Contact: http://www2.canada.com/theprovince/letters.html
Website: http://www.theprovince.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/476
Author: Susan Lazaruk

WASHINGTON STATE BORDER TOUGH ON POT, DESPITE NEW LAW

Don't expect Washington state's new relaxed marijuana law to extend to
its border crossings.

A Blaine immigration lawyer said a state law passed in November that
decriminalizes possession of a small amount of marijuana for personal
use has led to some Canadians being refused entry to the U.S. The new
lax law is state legislation but immigration and border patrol falls
within federal jurisdiction.

"What used to happen is they (Canadians caught with a marijuana) used
to be charged criminally," said Len Saunders, a lawyer hired regularly
by Canadians.

He said charges are no longer laid but the drugs are still subject to
seizure and individuals are told they're not welcome in the States.

"Because it's not a crime in Washington any more, people are surprised
and confused," said Saunders.

He said he gets called once or twice a week by Canadians needing his
help to apply for a waiver, which would enable them to enter the
States. He said it's $585 for the application, which can take weeks or
months to receive, plus legal fees. The waiver has to be renewed every
one to five years.

U.S. Customs and Border Patrol spokesman Chief Thomas Schreiber said
in an email that federal laws allow officers to deny entry to those
breaking federal laws.

Saunders also said some people who answer honestly a customs officer's
question whether or not they've ever smoked marijuana could also be
turned away from crossing the border forever, unless they apply for
and receive a waiver.

"It's unfortunately people in their late teens and early 20s who feel
intimidated by the officer and they feel they're obligated to answer
the question," said Saunders.
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MAP posted-by: Matt