New Hampshire House approves decriminalizing marijuana

Jeannie Herer

By Norma Love, Associated Press Writer

CONCORD, N.H.—New Hampshire’s House voted Wednesday to decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana by adults, but the victory was followed immediately by the governor’s pledge to veto the bill.
The House voted 214-137 to send a bill to the Senate to allow adults to possess one-quarter ounce or less of the substance. It also would decriminalize transporting less than one-quarter ounce of the drug.
Anyone under age 18 caught with one-quarter ounce or less would be subject to a $200 fine. The youth’s parents would be notified and he or she would have to complete a drug awareness program and community service within one year of the violation. Failing to comply would result in a $1,000 fine.
Wednesday’s vote comes seven months after Gov. John Lynch vetoed legalizing medical use of the drug. Lynch also opposes the new House bill, and immediately after the House vote said he would veto it.
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http://www.boston.com/news/local/new_hampshire/articles/2010/03/10/nh_house_considering_decriminalizing_marijuana/