MARYLAND — A bill with multiple implications on marijuana use and possession has passed in Maryland’s General Assembly. If House Bill 1071 is signed into law, police would no longer be able to use the odor of marijuana as probable cause to search some ones car.
The bill also lowers the fine for smoking in public to $50 for a first time offense and $150 for a second offense. Before, the fines were $250 and $500, respectively.
Officers also may not search a car based solely on the presence of cash near the drug.
If an officer suspects a person is driving under the influence of marijuana, they cannot conduct a search of any areas in the car not readily accessible to the driver.
Any evidence gathered in violation of these stipulations cannot be used in a trial, hearing, or any other proceeding, according to the bill.
Critics of HB1071 said it will seriously hinder law enforcements ability to protect the public. Those in favor feel this could help end the stigma around marijuana use.
One person staunchly against is Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis. To say Sheriff Lewis was fuming when we spoke with him, would be an understatement.
“This is not a victory for law abiding citizens, this is a victory for criminals, it’s a victory for those who enjoy riding around smoking weed, smoking dope, doing their thing,” said Lewis.
Ezra Riot,…