HARTFORD, Conn. — The Connecticut House of Representatives on Tuesday passed legislation decriminalizing marijuana, with supporters calling it a "common sense reform." The measure heads to Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, who has promised to sign it into law.

After a nearly four-hour debate, the House voted 90-57 to soften the punishment for possession of less than a half-ounce of marijuana to fines of $150 for a first offense and $200 to $500 for subsequent offenses. Current state law classifies marijuana possession as a misdemeanor, punishable by a possible jail term and larger fines.

Those younger than 21 would face a 60-day driver's license suspension, similar to the current penalty for possessing alcohol.

The bill also requires anyone 18 years old or younger who is caught with less than a half-ounce to be referred to the state's juvenile courts. And it requires referral to a drug education program for anyone who for a third time enters a plea of no contest or is found guilty of possessing less than one half-ounce of marijuana.

Adult-US - It's about time ! When are the rest of the states going to wake up and pass similar legislation.

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