East Lansing Legalizes Marijuana Use, Possession Over Age 21
EAST LANSING (WWJ/AP) - East Lansing has passed an ordinance legalizing the use and possession of less than an ounce of marijuana on private property by people over age 21.
The ordinance that passed 4-1 Tuesday night makes it a civil infraction for people under 21, punishable by a fine of $25 and community service or a required substance abuse course.
However, under state law, the use or possession of marijuana remains a misdemeanor, punishable of up to one year in jail.
The ordinance does not effect Michigan State University which prohibits any use of marijuana.
East Lansing Police Department Lt. Scott Wriggelsworth tells the Lansing State Journal that officers have the option to seek charges under state law, but normally won't arrest people for use or possession except in cases of known drug dealers.
Grand Rapids and Lansing also have decriminalized marijuana use and possession.
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