On Friday, Dallas — Texas’ third largest city — implemented a policy that instructs police officers to issue citations and a summons to appear in court, rather than arresting those found in possession of marijuana. This new policy will spare people an initial trip to jail, which is a step in the right direction. However, individuals still face all the same criminal penalties, including up to six months in jail, up to $2,000 in fines, and a lasting criminal record.
In Texas, a criminal record carries the following collateral consequences: -Hindered access to employment-Diminished educational opportunities-Impeded housing options-Jeopardized parental rights-Suspended drivers license (six months)-Obstructed right to self defense/ license to carry (five years)
To see meaningful changes to marijuana laws in Texas, we must change the unreasonable statewide policies that allow for such harsh penalties.
Contact your legislators now in support of more reasonable penalties for marijuana possession. Then, share this email with others who support reform.
credit:themaven.net
