Ann Arbor Criminal Defense Blog
The cities of Lansing, Jackson, and Ferndale voted yesterday to amend their city marijuana laws.
Jackson and Ferndale voted to change their city ordinances so that the use, possession, and transfer of up to one ounce of marijuana on private property for individuals over the age of 21 would not be punishable under the city law.
Lansing residents voted to update the city charter to preclude penalties for the use, possession and transfer of up to one ounce of marijuana on private property for individuals over the age of 21.
Last November, the cities of Detroit, Flint, and Grand Rapids voted to decriminalize marijuana possession. Ypsilanti voted to make possession by those over 21 to be the lowest priority of law enforcement. Kalamazoo last year adopted an ordinance that lessens the punishment for possession. Marijuana possession has long been decriminalized in Ann Arbor.
Decriminalization does not mean that marijuana in these cities is now legal. Individuals may still be charged and prosecuted under Michigan state law. Marijuana possession under state law is a misdemeanor that carries a penalty of up to one year in jail, a $2,000 fine, or both.
Be mindful of geography. Cities and townships immediately surrounding the above mentioned places are still enforcing their marijuana possession laws.
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