It has been reported that the North York Borough Council will vote in March on changing its municipal ordinances and allowing individuals in possession of small amounts of marijuana to avoid criminal penalties. 

North York Ordinance Would Decriminalize Marijuana Possession 

The North York Borough Council will vote on the proposed ordinance to decriminalize marijuana on March 12, 2024. Borough officials have explained that charging and prosecuting individuals for possessing small amounts of cannabis is a strain on law enforcement and court resources. By reclassifying marijuana possession as a noncriminal offense, the municipality can better apply its limited resources to public safety priorities. 

If passed, the North York Borough would join other Pennsylvania municipalities, such as York, Harrisburg, Lancaster, and Abbottstown, in decriminalizing cannabis possession. 

Pennsylvania state law currently classifies marijuana as an illegal Schedule 1 substance. Criminal charges involving marijuana can result in severe penalties, depending on the quantity of pot and any evidence of its cultivation or trafficking. If you are arrested or charged with marijuana possession, contact the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or submit an online consultation form. The LLF Law Firm can partner with you to protect your legal rights. 

Under current Pennsylvania state law, a conviction for the possession of even a small amount of cannabis is a third-degree misdemeanor and can result in a sentence of up to 30 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, and a six-month driver's license suspension. The criminal prosecution of marijuana possession and resulting penalties can make it extremely difficult for an individual found guilty of possession to work, attend school, or support a family. Harsh and far-reaching criminal penalties often seem disproportionate given the young age of many cannabis consumers and the community's increasing tolerance for and acceptance of marijuana use. If you are arrested or charged with marijuana possession, the LLF Law Firm can help you minimize the impact of the arrest or prosecution on your future. 

Efforts to Legalize Marijuana Continue 

Throughout Pennsylvania, the legalization of marijuana use is increasingly popular. State-wide efforts to decriminalize marijuana are ongoing, with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro calling for the legalization of recreational marijuana. Additionally, lawmakers are considering multiple changes to Pennsylvania's cannabis law, including expanded eligibility for medical marijuana. 

Marijuana Possession Remains Illegal Throughout Most of Pennsylvania 

Although efforts to legalize marijuana across Pennsylvania are ongoing, marijuana remains illegal throughout the state. Pennsylvania's law enforcement agencies continue to arrest and prosecute individuals for possession. At this time, the possession of a small amount of marijuana remains illegal throughout most of Pennsylvania. 

If you are arrested for or charged with a cannabis-related crime in Pennsylvania, the LLF Law Firm Team will fight for your rights. Contact the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or submit an online consultation form to get the best representation possible to defend you and your future.