Crime Lab Backlog Drastically Reduced After Decriminalization

New Hampshire became the 22nd state that has moved to decriminalize cannabis. Last year, the governor had signed a law that eliminated jail time for anyone convicted of possessing small quantities of cannabis. Those found with three-quarters of an ounce or less won't have to see any threat of being jailed over it.

However, they'd still be guilty of a violation and that could come with a fine.

The more that they're caught with cannabis, (anyone 18+ and older) the more the penalty increases. The first time it could be a $100 fine, with multiple occurrences eventually resulting in more fines and a potential Class B misdemeanor charge; if they are caught with it within a certain time frame.

For example, if you are caught 3x within 3years then the fine could go from $100 to $300.

Before the passage of the new bill, those who were found guilty of possession might have faced up to a year behind bars, along with thousands of dollars in fines.

And prior to the changes being made, it's reported that the State Police Forensic Laboratory had a severe backlog of cases, roughly 3,600+ of them. But now? it's alleged that thanks to the change in decriminalization over cannabis, it's said that the case load for that crime lab has dropped significantly.

Reduced by more than 40 percent

Now, their crime lab is only looking at a backlog of roughly 1,600+ cases. With the change in circumstances, now their agents are able to focus on more concerning matters.

Fewer cases are now being sent to the lab because of the new decriminalization changes and that's saving those crime lab analysts from having to spend time and resources on traveling to court to testify for various cannabis cases etc.

There is a commission currently investigating the potential for cannabis legalization in NH and lawmakers have been busy in recent months giving testimony in favor of, or against that cause. A cannabis legalization bill has passed the House but it's still being reviewed.

One report from a separate commission study on the issue is expected to come out by November of this year. It is expected to cover details on the potential for regulation, taxation, and legalization of the plant.

Pics:
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Sources:
https://www.aol.com/article/news/2017/07/19/new-hampshire-becomes-22nd-state-decriminalize-marijuana/23038224/
http://www.wmur.com/article/nh-senate-to-vote-on-marijuana-decriminalization-bill/9636414
https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomangell/2017/09/16/new-hampshire-marijuana-decriminalization-takes-effect/#13e4e8346250
http://nhpr.org/post/nh-crime-lab-reduces-backlog-after-marijuana-decriminalization-put-effect#stream/0
http://nhpr.org/post/whats-next-nh-bill-legalize-marijuana#stream/0
https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomangell/2018/01/09/new-hampshire-lawmakers-approve-marijuana-legalization/2/#7c34a2c7799a

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