California Lawmakers Not Planning Crackdown On Marijuana DUI's
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) – For the first time in three years, California lawmakers won't debate cracking down on drivers who have marijuana in their systems.
According to SF Weekly, 20 bills related to marijuana regulation were introduced before last month's legislative deadline, but none were related to marijuana use and driving.
Last year, Assemblyman Jim Frazier (D-Oakley) introduced AB 2500, which would have placed a blood THC limit of 2 nanograms per milliliter. The measure failed in committee.
Opponents of the proposals say THC stays in the blood for several days after using marijuana, long after the effects have worn off. California NORML, which supports marijuana legalization, reported the number of fatal accidents in the state has dropped despite higher marijuana use. The group proposes a roadside test instead of a chemical test to determine if a driver is impaired.
Last year, Sen. Dianne Feinstein voiced concern about drivers high on marijuana. "The risk of people using marijuana and driving is very substantial," Feinstein said in an interview with The Associated Press.
Feinstein, along with California Gov. Jerry Brown have both said they are skeptical of following Colorado and Washington State in legalizing marijuana for recreational purposes.