Hello everyone! The news article that got my attention was from KXAN titled "Low-level marijuana possession penalties could be reduced with new bill" written by Brittany Glas.
The article talks about a new bill that might be passed called House Bill 81. This bill is meant to reduce penalties for low-level marijuana possession, not legalize marijuana for recreational use in Texas. Instead of jail time and a criminal record, a simple ticket will be given as punishment. According to the Federal Bureau of Justice Statistics, " in 2015, there were more than 60,000 arrests for marijuana possession in Texas, which made up more than 13 percent of all arrests in the state that year. It’s estimated those arrests and the subsequent prosecution cost taxpayers $1.5 billion" ( KXAN). That kind of money should be used to process those accused of murder, and other acts of violence. The opposing side believe that marijuana is a gate way drug, and by legalizing and decriminalizing marijuana it will promote consumption at alarming rates. Stoners shouldn't be put in the same jail cell that holds murderers and rapists. I believe people shouldn't face any jail time just because they had a small amount of marijuana on their possession, and have their lives ruined because they have a criminal record because of it. The author isn't being biased throughout the article, and provides information from Federal Bureau of Justice Statistics as evidence.
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