Last month, activist groups led by the Coalition for Sensible Marijuana Policy launched a campaign to reduce the penalties for the possession of marijuana for personal use in Massachusetts. According to current state law, possession of any amount of marijuana carries the risk of incarceration, heavy fines, a criminal record and legal fees. Those convicted of marijuana possession can lose student financial aid, public housing, unemployment benefits, the right to operate a motor vehicle and the opportunity to serve as a foster or adoptive parent.

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