HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Senate has rejected yet another push to decriminalize recreational marijuana.
Lawmakers rejected a bill that would do away with jail time for anyone caught with up to an ounce of marijuana, replacing it with just a fine.
According to prosecutor Steve Alm, an ounce of marijuana is enough for about 60 joints. Alm said the current law allows up to three grams.
The proposed bill would have also made smoking marijuana in a public place a violation with just a $130 fine or ten hours of community service.
“Illegal marijuana is unregulated, untested and untaxed,” explained Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki. “This creates a significant public health concern. Decriminalizing this sends a message to our keiki and community that this drug is harmless. It is not.”
Senators also argued illegal marijuana contains pesticides and trace elements of metals like lead and nickel.
