POT BILL IN SPOTLIGHT

OTTAWA -- The federal government is fast-tracking its plan to
decriminalize marijuana, but the controversial bill will get a major
makeover in a bid to win over staunch opponents.

Justice Minister Martin Cauchon said the pot bill -- which
decriminalizes 15 grams of weed but imposes stiffer penalties on
traffickers and large growing operations -- is being hurried because
it's among government priorities that are "key to society."

Today, it will be referred to a special committee of MPs who have
already reviewed Canada's drug strategy, instead of being studied by a
full parliamentary committee.

"Cannabis reform is an important reform, and we believe that
proceeding with the special committee, they already have the
experience and we may be able to proceed faster," Cauchon said.

Likely amendments include reducing the 15-gram limit, establishing a
penalty system for repeat offenders, and cracking down harder on
growing operations.