NCJ Number
185721
Journal
Drug and Alcohol Review Volume: 19 Issue: 3 Dated: September 2000 Pages: 271-280
Date Published
September 2000
Length
10 pages
Annotation
A 1997 survey of 605 South Australian residents gathered information on public attitudes toward the Cannabis Expiation Notice (CEN) system, a civil sanction involving a fine for drug offenders who commit minor offenses related to marijuana possession and use.
Abstract
Results revealed that 39 percent of the participants had used marijuana; 14.5 percent had used marijuana at least once a year. Only 17 percent knew of the CEN system, but 76 percent were familiar with the system of on-the-spot fines. Confusion existed about the legal status of two expiable offenses in that 24 percent thought that possession of less than 100 grams of marijuana was legal and 53 percent thought that growing three plants was legal. Only 40 percent knew that the two expiable offenses involve a legal sanction. The majority thought that growing 15 plants, selling 25 grams for a profit, possession of less than 100 grams by a juvenile, and driving while affected by marijuana should remain illegal. Eight percent thought that medical use of cannabis should be legal. Half the sample thought that growing three plants and possession of less than 100 grams of marijuana should be legal; most of those who thought that the two offenses should be illegal said that a fine was the appropriate penalty. Fifty-seven percent thought that the marijuana laws should either remain as they are or become less strict. Findings indicated general support for expiation. Figures, tables, and 16 references