State lawmaker pushes to decriminalize marijuana saying, "This is a victimless crime"

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Monday is 4-20, a date which has long stood as the unofficial day to celebrate cannabis. In Milwaukee, local officials used the day to introduce a bill that would decriminalize small amount of marijuana. Rep. Mandela Barnes (D - Milwaukee) led the charge on Monday.

"I'm not sure at what point in American history marijuana became the big enemy here. But there are so many other things we can focus our dollars and attention on," said Barnes.

Opponents warn of higher uses of the drug and higher risks of young exposure as well as further health and safety risks.

Right now, Wisconsin law states that for a first offense, possession of any amount of marijuana is a misdemeanor, punishable by six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. Any subsequent offense is considered a felony, punishable by three-and-a-half years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.

Decriminalizing marijuana will not legalize the drug -- it will just reduce punishments. That means anyone who possesses 25 grams or less will get hit with a fine, but no jail time.



"We're not talking about people who are out selling drugs to children. We are talking about people who are in simple possession," said Barnes.

Rep. Barnes says this bill will lower the crime rate and free up space in crowded jails.

"This is not something that we should be putting people in prison for. This is not a violent offense, this is a victimless crime," said Barnes.

Right now, there are 20 states that have decriminalized marijuana. Rep. Barnes hopes Wisconsin follows suit.