Jonesboro, Georgia, Decriminalizes Marijuana Possession: What You Need to Know
In a unanimous vote, the Jonesboro City Council has decided to decriminalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana. As of Monday night, individuals caught with less than an ounce of the drug will face a maximum fine of $150 and no jail time. This new ordinance replaces the previous penalty of up to $1,000 in fines and 180 days in jail.
Councilwoman Chelsey Curney introduced the ordinance, citing the need to free up police resources to focus on more serious crimes. She also emphasized the importance of aligning Jonesboro’s laws with those of Clayton County, which decriminalized marijuana in September.
Curney believes that the new punishment is more fitting, stating that “disproportionately, certain groups are criminalized for small amounts of marijuana.” Several residents spoke in support of decriminalization during the meeting.
However, Councilwoman Tracey Messick was the sole dissenting vote, expressing concern that decriminalizing marijuana sends a mixed message to residents. According to Messick, while marijuana remains illegal statewide, decriminalization may lead to confusion about its acceptability.
Jonesboro is now among the 25 municipalities in Georgia that have decriminalized marijuana, including Atlanta, Forest Park, and Fulton County. This move aims to reduce the number of low-level marijuana offenders in the criminal justice system and redirect police resources towards more pressing issues.
