City in Kansas Votes to Reduce Cannabis Possession Fines to $1

[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]T[/dropcap]he city of Lawrence, Kansas is moving forward with changes that would decrease the city’s fine for cannabis possession to $1.

Last week, the Lawrence City Commission voted 4-1 to amend the city ordinance regarding the penalties for first and second offenses of cannabis possession. The changes apply to those 18 and over who are convicted of possessing 32 grams or less of cannabis. The proposed $1 fine would replace the current fine of $200, as well as a $63 court fee.

Commissioner Matthew Herbert said he thought the commission’s vote sent a message to state lawmakers, given that states around Kansas have legalized cannabis either recreationally or medically.

Commissioner Stuart Boley, who cast only vote against the new measure, said he’s concerned that people will be confused because while the fine for the first and second offenses will be $1, the third cannabis possession offense is a felony under state law. “I think we are lulling people into a false confidence that they can do this with impunity when they are still facing a felony charge on the third time, so I can’t support lowering the fine,” Boley said.

The proposal came about after a concerned citizen asked the commission to review and change the policy. Six people spoke during public comment in favor of lowering the fines for cannabis possession. Only one speaker opposed lowering the fines, saying the changes were meant to get close to legalizing cannabis, which could have detrimental effects on the community. “When you make the fine a dollar, basically you’re saying we’re decriminalizing marijuana. Lawrence has always been a leader in those type of liberal, progressive changes,” said David Wilkinson, a resident who supports the change.

The ordinance needs to go through a second reading and a final vote before it is officially passed.