Rhode Island Decriminalize Small Possession Of Marijuana

Rhode Island is now the 17the state in the nation to decriminalize possession of a small amount of marijuana. Independent Governor Lincoln Chafee signed the legislation into law, which makes possession of an ounce of marijuana or less a civil violation with a $150 fine, instead of a misdemeanor or felony. Seven more states may join Rhode Island in the second half of the year – and may even go a step further and legalize and regulate marijuana like alcohol. Though long overdue – Nixon's half-century war on drugs may finally be nearing an end.