Decriminalization

Across the country, 21 states have legalized adult-use cannabis and 10 more have “decriminalized” simple possession in some way, according to the Marijuana Policy Project.

“Most of the decriminalization states impose a civil fine, which avoids the life-altering collateral consequences a criminal record carries,” according to the group.

But Pennsylvania residents can still face criminal charges for possessing small amounts of marijuana. Under state law, someone who possesses 30 grams of marijuana or less can be convicted of a misdemeanor and face up to 30 days in jail and up to a $500 fine.

“I’d like to see the arrests stop first,” said Chris Goldstein, a regional organizer for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. “They’ve stopped all over the country. But Pennsylvania is proceeding forward with criminal prohibition almost unabated.”

Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and some other municipalities have reduced possession penalties on their own. But decriminalization bills have not progressed in the state legislature in recent years, Goldstein said.

One bipartisan bill in the Senate last session would have reduced the penalty for possessing a small amount of marijuana to a summary offense, cut the maximum fine for possession to $25, and eliminated jail time for that charge. Smoking a small amount of marijuana in a public space would have a maximum fine of $100. The bill did not receive votes in committee. Decriminalization legislation is expected to be introduced again this session.