California Assemblyman Pushes For Changes In Pot Prosecution
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) - State Assemblyman Tom Ammiano has introduced legislation that would decrease penalties for people convicted of illegally growing marijuana, in certain cases.
KCBS' Anna Duckworth Reports:
A marijuana cultivation sentence in California is considered a felony, which is punishable by up to three years in state prison. Ammiano said that his bill would change that.
"In talking to many district attorneys across California, particularly in the north, they would like an option about sentencing," said Ammiano.
The bill would allow prosecutors to seek a felony or misdemeanor charge, based on the circumstances of the grower.
"For example, it may be someone cultivating marijuana for home use, say for medical purposes, as opposed to some marijuana plantation that may in fact be run by a cartel," said Ammiano.
Ammiano said felony cases are costly, back up the courts and contribute to prison overcrowding.
He expects his bill to start working through legislative committees next month.
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