The clarity sought regarding New York City's new position on small amounts of marijuana has arrived.
Beginning Nov. 19, possession of 25 grams or less of marijuana will result in a summonses and a $100 fine for a first offense, as opposed to an arrest. However, Gothamist notes that anyone caught with this amount of marijuana will need to present valid identification to avoid an arrest.
Gothamist noted that Mayor Bill de Blaiso emphasized how important it is for New York City residents to carry identification at all times, "particularly our young people."
Before the celebratory weed-smoking commences, here are a few things to remember about the new approach:
New Yorkers can also expect to be arrested and charged with a misdemeanor for small amounts of marijuana if they are selling it, smoking it in public, or if they have an outstanding warrant. If you're part of a group smoking a joint, police can arrest the entire group. If a police officer smells burnt marijuana and finds unlit marijuana, you can also be subject to arrest.
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[via Gothamist]
