IMPORTANT VERMONT NEWS to -CIRCULATE-

[The GCW]

Vermont Senate wants to hear from the public on marijuana policy reform
Sen. Richard Sears (D-Bennington) has scheduled a public hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee on the evening of January 23 to hear from average citizens about Vermont's drug policies. This hearing will include discussion on eliminating criminal penalties for possessing small amounts of marijuana.

It is very important that the committee hear that Vermonters want a new approach to marijuana policy.

WHAT: Public hearing to discuss appropriate drug policies WHEN: Wednesday, January 23, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. WHERE: Vermont Statehouse, Room 11

Sens. Jeanette White (D-Putney) and Hinda Miller (D-Burlington) have introduced S.238, which will make possession of less than two ounces of marijuana a civil violation punishable by a maximum fine of $250. It will also make possession of less than four ounces of marijuana a civil violation, punishable only by a fine. These important changes might save students and others from criminal records. Such a record, after being convicted of possessing even a small amount of marijuana, can affect a person for life.

After hearing from the public on January 23, the Senate Judiciary Committee will hold formal hearings with expert testimony on the bill. Please click here to read more about S.238 and the public hearing on January 23.

If you attend the meeting, please remember to dress and act professionally. We want to engage legislators, not alienate them. If you would like talking points to use at the public hearing, please e-mail Zane@mpp.org.

Thank you for supporting the Marijuana Policy Project. Please pass this alert on to your friends, family, and e-mail lists in Vermont so that others can attend the meeting in Montpelier on Wednesday. We'll continue to update you as marijuana policy reform moves forward in Vermont.