Joe Bangert
Cape Cod Times
Leave the kids alone. Vote "yes" on Question 2!
Why? It would:
- Replace criminal penalties with a $100 fine, which would go to the city where the offense takes place.
- Eliminate collection of Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) reports for minor infractions.
- Maintain current penalties for selling, growing, and trafficking marijuana, as well as the prohibition against driving under the influence of marijuana.
- Require additional penalties for minors not in current law, such as parental notification, a compulsory drug awareness program, and 10 hours' community service — plus a larger $1,000 fine and possible delinquency proceedings for those under 17 if they do not complete the requirements.
The law represents a break with current law in Massachusetts, where people charged with marijuana possession now face criminal penalties of up to six months in jail and a $500 fine, and filing of a CORI report.
It also clears up about $32 million utilized to attack our offspring. Vote "yes" on Question 2. Leave our kids alone and decriminalized!
Joe Bangert
Brewster
