Missouri House Democrats aim for lesser drug sentences

Posted: 02.07.2013 at 3:19 PM

/ File

(AP) -- Some Missouri House Democrats are looking to reduce the punishment for marijuana possession.

Under a bill outlined Thursday, first-time offenders for marijuana possession would be allowed to do community service and avoid jail. If offenders complete the sentence, the convictions would be removed from their record.

Rep. Rory Ellinger, a criminal defense attorney and Democrat from St. Louis, said the legislation would help people with marijuana convictions in their youth get jobs later by not having to disclose the conviction.

Ellinger said the measure could save the state money by keeping first-time drug offenders out of jail.

The new sentencing structure would apply only to people carrying less than 35 grams of marijuana.

(Copyright ©2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Comments are the sole responsibility of the person posting them; they are not reflective of the views or opinions of Barrington Broadcasting, KRCG, its directors or employees. If you believe a comment violates the Barrington Terms of Use, please flag it above.

Popular Stories

Severe storms possible Sunday through Tuesday
Jessica Troike | Saturday, May 18, 2013 | 1 comment

Columbia man dead in overnight shooting
Juliette Dryer | Yesterday at 3:20 PM | 3 comments

60-year-old woman hospitalized after stabbing
Juliette Dryer | Yesterday at 2:53 PM

Follow Connect Mid-Missouri

Get news and weather notifications on your phone by downloading the iPhone or Android app below

submit

Special Features

Community Connection

Participate in great causes in the community!

Relay For Life of Cole County

Friday, June 7, at 6 p.m. at the Jefferson City Jaycees Fairgrounds

Find it, click it, use it... your neighborhood business guide.

Latest Headlines

The latest local news, weather and high school sports in and around Columbia and Jefferson City