Pittsburgh Votes to Decriminalise Cannabis

Cannabis activism is back on the rise in America. The good news this time comes from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, whose city council voted in favour of decriminalising the possession of small amounts of cannabis, opting to follow the example of other cities that have recently taken similar steps, such as Chicago and Philadelphia.

With an ordinance that passed by a 7-2 vote, police in the state's second largest city will refrain from arresting those possessing less than 30 g of marijuana, or smoking in a public space, the City explained. Instead, violators may be fined 25 dollars (about 21 euros) if carrying over said amount, with penalties of 100 US dollars (about 92 euros) for those consuming in public. It's not a perfect situation, but it is a breakthrough.

At this point all that remains is for Mayor Bill Peduto to approve the new regulation. His endorsement is assured, as he has already announced that he agrees with the measure. He believes that the change is "common sense" and will help protect the future of the city's youth. Until now young people risked being imprisoned for minor offences, and being saddled with criminal records that would damage their lives, hindering their access to new job opportunities and academic scholarships.

Those who opposed the decision argued that legalisation should be enacted only at the state level, to avoid confusion amongst police. Some, like Councilwoman Theresa Kail-Smith, who voted against the decision, explained that an ordinance of this type could lead to penalties "more serious" than fines, but did not specify what she meant. In any case, more are in favour than against. Legalisation is slowly expanding all around the world.