Forsyth Legislator Reintroduces Bill Decriminalizing Up To 3 Ounces Of Pot

Senate Bill 58 would make it legal for North Carolina residents to possess up to 3 ounces of marijuana for personal use. Individuals found with more than 3 ounces would be charged with a misdemeanor, with possession of 1 pound or more qualifying as a felony.

Democratic Senator Paul Lowe of Forsyth County is the bill's primary sponsor.

Lowe introduced a similar bill in 2018, but the proposal was never heard by the Senate Rules and Operations Committee.

Lowe tells the Winston-Salem Journal that with newly elected legislators bringing fresh perspectives, the time is right to see if his proposal gets a different reception.

According to DISA Global solutions, a pro-marijuana website, there are currently 10 states that allow for legal recreational possession of pot. 32 states have enacted medical cannabis laws.

DISA points to a 2017 Elon University poll that shows a majority of North Carolina voters support legalizing medical marijuana, and says that pressure is mounting on lawmakers to take action.