Two marijuana-related bills have cleared hurdles in the New Mexico Senate and House. Legislation that would not include jail time for offenders having less than an ounce of pot just passed the Senate on Saturday in a 21-20 vote.
According to the bill, anyone with an ounce or less of marijuana would get a ticket and a $50 fine. Anyone with up to 8 ounces wouldn't receive jail time but would be charged with a misdemeanor.
The bill now moves to the House, which passed a measure affecting employees at medical marijuana providers.
The House voted 34-24 in favor of legislation requiring employees pass criminal background checks.
Supporters say it will keep anyone with drug-related convictions ineligible from working at a dispensary.
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Information from: Albuquerque Journal, http://www.abqjournal.com
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