Local state legislators said the decriminalization and legalization of marijuana really haven't been discussed much in the legislature.
"I would certainly be willing to listen to both sides of the issues, but I need more information and facts before I could render an opinion at this time," commented state Rep. Kurt Masser (R-107) of Elysburg.
He added, "We've spent a lot of money on the war on drugs, but it remains a serious problem."
State Rep. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-108) stated, "We really haven't formally discussed the issue at all. Legalizing marijuana doesn't have a whole lot of traction in Pennsylvania at this point. Legalizing marijuana for medical reasons certainly can be beneficial in some cases. But I think people have abused some of the law changes made in other states regarding marijuana."
The legislator said she would need more information before deciding how to vote on the issues of decriminalization and legalization of marijuana if legislation was ever proposed. "Drug use is a very slippery slope," she said.
On April 5, 2010, Philadelphia decriminalized cannabis (marijuana). Possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana is punishable by a $200 fine for the first offense and $300 fine for all others.
The use, sale and possession of cannabis (marijuana) in the United States is illegal under federal law. However, some states have created exemptions for medical use, as well as decriminalized non-medical use.
President Barack Obama has maintained that the current administration will not raid medical marijuana dispensaries that cooperate with state and local laws, although Obama is not in favor of full legalization on a national level.
In October 2011, Gallup poll showed 50 percent support for legalizing marijuana and 46 percent said marijuana should remain illegal. The highest support for legalization came from liberals and adults under age 30, with more than 60 percent, and the lowest support came from Americans over age 65 with 31 percent.