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Lawmaker Introduces Bill To Reduce Penalties For Marijuana Possession

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AUSTIN (CBSDFW.COM) — State Rep. Joe Moody has introduced a bill that would reduce penalties for marijuana possession in Texas.

"We tend to criminalize everything. What we've done here is created a civil sanction so it would still be technically illegal under the law but wouldn't be punishable under a criminal sanction," said Rep. Moody. "We need a new approach that allows us to more effectively utilize our limited criminal justice resources. This legislation is a much-needed step in the right direction."

Any marijuana possession conviction – even for a small amount – can result in jail time.

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