9 Wisconsin Cities Decriminalize Marijuana Possession

Nine of the ten largest cities in Wisconsin have established local ordinances decriminalizing minor marijuana possession offenses.

The fines range from just $50 (in Milwaukee) up to $1,000 (in Green Bay). Most citywide ordinances do not enforce criminal sanctions unless the quantity of marijuana possessed exceeds 25 grams.

One of the ordinances imposes a maximum fine of only $100 for anyone found in the possession of up to 28 grams of marijuana. Another amended local law makes possession of up to five grams of marijuana punishable by no more than a $100 fine.

These cities have greatly reduced penalties for marijuana possession in Wisconsin. The current state law classifies the possession of any amount of marijuana as a criminal misdemeanor that is punishable by up to six-months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Consecutive offenses are classified as felonies punishable by over three years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine.

Many cities throughout the U.S., such as Miami Beach, are starting to decriminalize marijuana possession.