Possession of the drug is still illegal; it is simply no longer a criminal offense. Possession of an ounce of the drug will now result in a $150 fine and a mandatory drug treatment program. Half of the fine money will go to run this and other drug treatment programs throughout the state.
Reactions around the state are varied. Some claim that this sends the message that drug usage is acceptable and believe that it will increase drug use among the state's youth. Others claim that the potential revenue raised from the fines will actually help reduce drug use through the programs it will fund.
Thoughts?