House passes bill to reduce drug possession penalties
"In Colorado, adults 21 and older can legally possess only one ounce of marijuana at a time for recreational use."
“The war on drugs has permanently branded many drug users with felony convictions that make it harder for them to find employment, access housing, and complete treatment, which are critical for a successful recovery,” said Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver, a sponsor of the bill. “It has devastated communities of color in my district and throughout Colorado. Lowering the possession penalty from a felony to a misdemeanor will bring the punishment more in line with the crime. It reflects the position held by most Coloradans that the state should focus more on treatment and less on incarceration.”
"The bill has bipartisan support, being co-sponsored by Rep. Shane Sandridge, R-Colorado Springs, and Sens. Pete Lee, D-Colorado Springs, and Vicki Marble, R-Fort Collins."
"Reform proponents also argue the change could help to ease prison overcrowding, which is a growing problem in the state."
#LeslieHerod #criminaljusticereform #pettyoffenses #prisonpopulation #drugpossession
