POLICE SHOULD SIMPLY ENFORCE NEW POT LAW AS WRITTEN

On Nov. 4, a majority of voters in Massachusetts chose to
decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana. Those in
possession of less than an ounce of marijuana are no longer charged
with a criminal offense but instead face a $100 fine.

The new law officially takes effect tomorrow. Yet some police
departments across the state say they are uncertain as to how to
enforce it, noting they do not have the proper citations and raising
other questions. Indeed, the state Executive Office of Public Safety
and Security just Monday issued guidelines for police departments
regarding local enforcement of the new mandates.

So, why is this so difficult? It's been nearly two months since 65
percent of Massachusetts voters, amid a record turnout, opted to
change the law. Yes, law enforcement officials across the state
opposed it, and we at the Times endorsed a "no" vote to the changes
ourselves. But the voters indeed had their say, and won the day.
Unlike some state lawmakers, we actually think that has to be the
final word, and law enforcement officials have to recognize that as
well.

Under the new law, people caught with a small amount of marijuana will
be forced to hand over the drug and pay a $100 fine. Those under 18
will be required to complete a drug awareness program or face a
stiffer $1,000 fine. They can either pay a fine to a clerk or request
a District Court hearing.

It's apparent that the will of the voters was that simple possession
of marijuana be treated as a relatively trivial matter: pay a small
fine and be done with it.

The best course for all local and state police, like it or not, is to
simply enforce the law as written, and follow the orders of the voters
who pay their salaries.