Some more baby steps... FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WSVN) -- Broward County commissioners have voted unanimously to lower the penalties for possession of marijuana. Commissioners are mellowing things out when it comes to pot possession. "I believe that giving police officers the ability to issue civil citations to folks will give people another chance in life," said Broward County Vice Mayor Martin David Kiar. Not everyone is on board. "'County Commission says it's OK to smoke pot!'" said addiction specialist Garry Smyth, who held up a Sun Sentinel newspaper and read the headline. "No jail, $100 fine and mixed message to kids," Smyth said as he read the headline aloud. Onesupporter said leisure smokers can't die from the drug. "The only way marijuana will kill you is if someone crushes you under a bale of it," said Karen Goldstein, who supports the ordinance. Broward County commissioners Lois Wexler and Dale Holness amended the ordinance. "I don't think an endless amount of chances are anything that I want to subscribe to," said Wexler. As a result of the vote, first offenders will be issued a $100 fine. Those caught for a second time will receive a $250 citation, and third-time offenders will be fined $500 plus a mandatory drug assessment. After a third citation, offenders will be charged with a misdemeanor. Commissioners had previously voted to allow law enforcement officers to issue civil citations for people caught with 20 grams or less of marijuana. For those caught with less than 20 grams, but have them in small dime bags, law enforcement can still take the person to jail if they believe the carrier intends to distribute it. If someone is charged with a DUI or another felony and also have marijuana, they can still be charged with possession. It is unclear when the law will go into effect.
Wow, something not completely insane or detestable coming out of America's mental institution know as Florida? What is this parallel universe I find myself in?