Pubdate: Fri, 13 Jun 2014 Source: Philadelphia Inquirer, The (PA) Copyright: 2014 Philadelphia Newspapers Inc Contact: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/340 Page: A6 CABINET BACKS EASING OF MARIJUANA LAWS (AP) - Jamaica's government plans to partially decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana in what supporters call a long-overdue rethinking of drug laws. Justice Minister Mark Golding said Thursday that the cabinet was backing a proposal to make possession of no more than 2 ounces of marijuana a petty offense that could result in a fine but not a criminal arrest. The measures are almost certain to clear the legislature. Marijuana has been pervasive but outlawed on the island for a century. Golding says possession for religious purposes will also be allowed. Followers of the Rastafari movement smoke marijuana, which they consider a sacrament. Golding says legislation would be drafted to provide a path for people to get criminal records expunged if they have been convicted under the current law. - --- MAP posted-by: Matt