TAMPA, FL (WFLA) — Starting Friday, April 1, 2016, those caught possessing marijuana in the City of Tampa will face lesser punishment.
Last month, the City of Tampa passed an ordinance stating people caught with 20 grams or less of marijuana will now only face a citation.
Under the measure, people who possess 20 grams or less of marijuana will be issued a $75 citation for the first offense, and a $150 citation for the second offense. Citations will be $300 or more for three or more offenses.
Possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana would still be classified as a felony criminal offense.
Before the ordinance, people were charged with a misdemeanor if caught with 20 grams or less or marijuana.
Council members passed the ordinance to change that by a 5-to-1 voteMORE: Tampa votes to decriminalize marijuanaWHAT OTHERS ARE CLICKING ON RIGHT NOW:
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