Marijuana laws in Pennsylvania are among the most severe in the country despite a majority of voters supporting legalization and regulated sales, according to a report from the Marijuana Policy Project.
The organization, which is working towards changing federal cannabis laws, examined states where policies lag the most behind public opinion. Research showed that there were 19 states who still penalize marijuana possession with possible jail time and a criminal record, even though 68% of Americans agree it should be legal.
Possession of cannabis has been decriminalized in 31 states, but only 18 of those have legalized recreational use among adults.
A 2020 poll from Harper Polling found that 62% of likely voters in Pennsylvania support the legalization and sale of recreational marijuana. However, under current state law, those found in possession face up to 30 days of imprisonment or a fine of up to $500 for 30 grams or less — just under an ounce.
In Philadelphia, marijuana use was decriminalized in 2014, but the city has yet to legalize it. Possession of 30 grams or less for personal use comes with a fine of $25 and smoking in public comes with a penalty of $100. Being caught with a larger amount can result in arrest and jail time.
Other parts of the state have also passed decriminalization measures, including York, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Steelton, State College, Bethlehem, Lancaster, Erie, and Upper Darby Township.
On the state level, recent legislative…
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Marijuana laws in Pennsylvania are among the most severe in the country despite a majority of voters supporting legalization and regulated sales, according to a report from the Marijuana Policy Project.
The organization, which is working towards changing federal cannabis laws, examined states where policies lag the most behind public opinion. Research showed that there were 19 states who still penalize marijuana possession with possible jail time and a criminal record, even though 68% of Americans agree it should be legal.
Possession of cannabis has been decriminalized in 31 states, but only 18 of those have legalized recreational use among adults.
A 2020 poll from Harper Polling found that 62% of likely voters in Pennsylvania support the legalization and sale of recreational marijuana. However, under current state law, those found in possession face up to 30 days of imprisonment or a fine of up to $500 for 30 grams or less — just under an ounce.
In Philadelphia, marijuana use was decriminalized in 2014, but the city has yet to legalize it. Possession of 30 grams or less for personal use comes with a fine of $25 and smoking in public comes with a penalty of $100. Being caught with a larger amount can result in arrest and jail time.
Other parts of the state have also passed decriminalization measures, including York, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Steelton, State College, Bethlehem, Lancaster, Erie, and Upper Darby Township.
On the state level, recent legislative…
