CANADA LAWMAKERS SEEK TO EASE MARIJUANA LAWS

Selling, Growing Would Still Be Crimes

TORONTO - Canada proposed a new marijuana law Tuesday that would eliminate
a criminal record for possession of small amounts while spending millions
to spread an anti-marijuana message.

U.S. officials have said the move could lead to tighter border security to
prevent more Canadian-grown marijuana from entering the country.

Under the measure introduced in Parliament, getting caught with 15 grams -
about half an ounce - or less of marijuana would bring a citation akin to a
traffic ticket, not a criminal record.

Although possession of marijuana would remain illegal, the bill is intended
to prevent young people from getting saddled with a lifelong criminal
record, Those younger than 18 years old could face fines of up to $182 for
minor possession, and adults could be fined $292.

At the same time, the maximum sentence for illegal growers would be
increased to 14 years in prison from the current seven, and trafficking
would remain punishable by up to life in prison.

Justice Minister Martin Cauchon said the law includes an education,
research and treatment program aimed at persuading young people against
drug use. The government intends to spend $179 million on the program.

Liberalizing laws will boost drug use and bring more marijuana into the
United States, says John Walters, director of the U.S. Office of National
Drug Control Policy.

The issue joins a growing list of differences between the North American
neighbors.

Despite their military ties and common democratic values, Canada has
traditionally adopted more liberal social policies.

Most recently, Canada refused to join the U.S.-led coalition fighting in Iraq.