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Cannabis Campaigners' Guide News Database result:
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Canada: Federal Liberals re-introduce marijuana bill Canadian Press Toronto Star Thursday 12 Feb 2004 OTTAWA (CP) - The government reintroduced a bill today to decriminalize possession of small quantities of marijuana, but failed to reduce the maximum threshold from 15 grams. Any changes would have to be proposed by MPs, said an official in the Prime Minister's Office. The government wants the law to pass before the next federal election, expected in the spring, in the hope of muting any criticism. The bill was reintroduced at Third Reading, meaning it won't have to be re-examined by a parliamentary committee. That would change if the House of Commons reduces maximum possession to 10 grams, as was suggested by some Liberal and Conservative MPs. Justice Minister Irwin Cotler said while marijuana use must be discouraged, it should not result in a criminal record for possessing small amounts. As it stands, the proposed law would not impose criminal sanctions for possession of enough pot to make about 20 joints. However, fines of up to $400 could be imposed for adults; less for youth. The legislation would increase maximum penalties for the producers of cannabis. The Senate would review the bill for several weeks after it passes the Commons.
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