"Decriminalizing marijuana might save the state millions of dollars in prosecution and prison costs, or it could have the opposite effect and make a drug that is currently illegal in Rhode Island - and most of the United States - much more readily available to anyone within the state's borders, including teenagers, " reports Katherine Gregg, State House Bureau reporter in the January 20, 2010 Providence Journal. Proponents for decriminalizing marijuana argue that "the state could save upwards of $2.2 million annually in prison costs alone by decriminalizing the possession of less than an ounce of marijuana."
As the debate regarding the possibility of decriminalizing marijuana continues in the State of Rhode Island it is important to remember that possession of marijuana is still a crime. Therefore, if you or a family member has been charged with possession of marijuana please contact Attorney Robert H. Humphrey at (401) 816-5862 or E-mail him at rhh@rhumphreylaw.com.