Israel decriminalizing cannabis: Isreal's largest legislative body, the Israeli Knesset, is considering decriminalizing marijuana this week via vote. If the new law passes, jail time would be reversed for some individuals found guilty of cannabis crimes. Those charged and sentenced with jail time will receive civil fines instead.
Israel Decriminalizing Cannabis? Fines, Fines, Fines
For first-time cannabis offenders, the fine of 1,000 shekels (USD $275) will be given out. The second infraction could see an increase to 2,000 shekels (USD $550). A third fine would entail community service and a higher fine to avoid criminal charges.
The fourth set of charges would result in criminal charges and would entail incarceration. This new law does not apply to members of the military, minors, or anyone with a past criminal record. Underage offenders would have to complete a drug rehab program.
Meirav Ben-Ari, Member of the Knesset, told the press:
"I definitely hope that the money [collected] from the fines will be allocated for the establishment of a fund for education, information, treatment, and rehabilitation of [drug] addicts, instead of taking the money to the state's funds."
March Approval
In March, the bill to decriminalize cannabis was approved unanimously by Knesset. Israel has held an active cannabis community throughout the year. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, nine percent of Israeli citizens use marijuana. Last year in April, hundreds of pro-cannabis activists stood outside the Knesset and held a peaceful protest.
The protests included marijuana, music, and food. At 4:20 PM a mass 'smoke out' was held and the police let it go on. These activists call it Cannabis Day, and it is held on the global pot smoking day of 4/20.
If the law is pushed through this week, it will be interesting to see how much more the cannabis industry will grow in Israel.
>> 14 Synthetic Cannabis Overdoses Reported on July 4th in Connecticut
Featured Image: Depositphotos/© PromesaStudio
