EL PASO, TX — El Paso county Commissioners have unanimously approved a plan to issue summonses to first-time, low level marijuana possession offenders in lieu of making a criminal arrest.
Under the forthcoming program, which is anticipated to be in place as early as next month, certain marijuana offenders will face an administrative fine and eight hours of community service. Upon completion of the program, defendants will not be subject to a criminal conviction or record.
Similar localized diversion programs have also been approved by lawmakers in Bexar County (San Antonio), Dallas County, Harris County (Houston), and in Travis County (Austin).
Under state law, the possession of up to four ounces of cannabis is classified as a criminal misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
Tags: El Paso, Texas, Texas marijuana
