Pubdate: Thu, 19 Sep 2019
Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution (GA)
Copyright: 2019 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Contact:  http://www.ajc.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/28
Author: J.D. Capelouto

CITY TO DECRIMINALIZE POT POSSESSION

The city of Chamblee is the 11th local government in Georgia to
decriminalize the possession of marijuana.

The City Council unanimously passed an ordinance Tuesday night
eliminating the possibility of jail time and severely reducing the
fine for possessing one ounce or less of weed. An adult caught with
marijuana by a Chamblee police officer will be cited and fined $75 for
their first offense, according to the ordinance. That charge can be
paid online and a court date isn't required.

The DeKalb County city previously defaulted to state law for
possession of one ounce or less of marijuana, which is classified as a
misdemeanor. Punishment under state law could be up to one year of
jail time or a $1,000 fine. An ounce of marijuana can make up to about
40 joints, according to online resources.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Matt