Legal relief: up to 56 grams without charge or discrimination
The governor of the State of New York, yesterday signed the new law to decriminalize cannabis users. The new law simplifies matters even further compared to the previous law which was approved in 1977. New York is the 16th US state to do so. The measure also requires that criminal records of offenses related to low-intensity cases be erased, an apparent reflection of the fact that in the past communities of color suffered unduly from different application of the law.
Governor Andrew Cuomo tried to legalize completely but had to resolve some objections. However, the decriminalization of small amounts of cannabis is a significant advance for social justice initiatives: in 1977, it was a fine of $ 100 for possessing a small amount of cannabis in a private space. The new law now provides for a fine of $ 50 for possession of up to 28 grams, even in public places, and a fine of up to $ 200 for possession of up to 56 grams.
The new law will also retroactively remove past criminal records for those caught in possession of cannabis for the purpose of self-consumption.
"Marijuana laws have for too long disproportionately affected communities of color and today we are ending this injustice once and for all," Cuomo said in a statement. communicated.
In many ways, the decision taken by politicians in the capital, Albany, is behind the trend seen in many parts of the country. New York became the 16th to decriminalize use, and 11 states along with the districts of Columbia, known as Washington DC, legalized personal use.
Those who advocate further liberalization have welcomed the move, but have urged lawmakers to go further. Some said there are always many negative consequences associated with illegal consumption.
Dr. Stuart Titus, Director of Medical Marijuana Inc. (OTC: MJNA), said: “New York has always been at the forefront of many legislative policies in the United States and we hope this new decriminalization measure in New York will serve as an example for other states and the federal government to follow. "
The illegal nature of cannabis hasn't scared off investors. Evan Eneman, CEO. by MGO | ELLO Alliance, a specialist finance and banking firm said: “The cannabis industry is not waiting for regulators to catch up, as evidenced by record pace of venture capital investment, detailed in MGO | ELLO Cannabis Private Investment Review. The report says investments already exceeded $ 1,3 billion in the first half of this year, up from $ 1 billion in 2018. Investors have a strong appetite for cannabis and don't leave roadblocks such as the legalization get in the way. "
