Marijuana decriminalization bill passes

A bill that would decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana has passed with a 24- to 14 party line vote with no Republican support in the Delaware state House.

House Bill 39 would make possession of an ounce or less of marijuana a civil offense, instead of criminal.

The punishment would be a $100 fine. Also, smoking marijuana in a moving vehicle or in a public place would be a criminal misdemeanor with imprisonment up to five days, and up to a $200 fine. We’re told law enforcement groups oppose the bill.

However, supporters believe it will help otherwise law-abiding marijuana smokers from ending up with criminal records. The bill will now go to the Senate.