PROVIDENCE -- Lawmakers in Rhode Island are looking at a bill that would decriminalize small amounts of marijuana and regulate its sale.
It's a controversial idea that's gaining ground in cash-strapped states, including Rhode Island.
Supporters say it will could cut policing costs and raise revenue by taxing the drug. Opponents question the morality of it.
"The state of Rhode Island alone could realize a savings of $40 million a year by not trying to chase down these people and arrest them for marijuana violations. Plus, taxes could give you another almost $8 million a year. So there's $48 million that the state of Rhode Island could realize by just changing this law," said Jack Cole, a retired narcotics officer.
Cole spent more than two decades fighting the war on drugs as a detective lieutenant with the New Jersey State Police. He's now an outspoken supporter of legalizing marijuana and will testify before Rhode Island's House Judiciary Committee.
The House is considering two bills. One would legalize personal use of marijuana under certain conditions, and the other would make possession of an ounce or less a civil offense with a fine of $150.
"We can reduce death, disease, crime and addiction by ending drug prohibition," Cole said.
Central Falls Police Chief Joseph Moran, president of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association, disagrees.
Moran said the idea of legalizing marijuana for personal use or possibly giving out tickets instead of making arrests won't actually save time or money.
"I would ask all of the representatives and the senators not to pass decriminalization of marijuana because that's just problematic," Moran said.
The bills are a long way from changing existing law.
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